Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1078260
5 maltatoday | SUNDAY • 3 FEBRUARY 2019 THIS WEEK MUSIC ture] Toni Attard, who was also enthu- siastic about the idea as much as I was and he believed in it and encouraged me to embark on the project. Together we are creating something different that will bring back some swing into one's life. We're hoping to send people home with a spring in their step. Are you looking forward to performing alongside the Big Band Brothers and Jasmine Abela? How would you say your respective styles and approaches complement each other? Having the Big Band Brothers on board was what sealed the deal to go ahead with the concert. I would say that they are possibly one of the best bands I have heard around my travels in Europe. Their sound is impecca- ble and they create such an amazing vibe. I met Jasmine when both of us performed for Queen Elizabeth II dur- ing the opening of CHOGM in Malta. It was her voice, charm and charisma that stuck out, for me. So it has been at the back of my mind for years now to find an opportunity to work with her. I really believe that the blend of our voices will work fabulously to- gether and the blend of a classical voice with that swing touch will create something magical. What do you make of the music scene in Malta, particularly now that Valletta has just finished serving as European Capital of Culture? What would you change about it? I really believe the music scene in Malta is very strong. We have so many young artists making a good name for themselves in Malta and abroad even if we might not hear of them often enough. I would like to see more audi- ences in our venues and I encourage the Maltese public to participate more in the music scene. I remember going out to the theatre as a child and it was a real treat. My parents always made sure the arts were a prominent part of our lives and I am grateful for those experiences that inspired me to start a music career. As an artist, my pleas- ure is giving others enjoyment. When the audience is receptive to a perfor- mance and are involved, the energy in the hall changes and makes the even- ing that much more special. What's next for you? This year I am extremely busy. I will debut at the Manoel Theatre in the role of Ferrando in Cosi Fan Tutte in March. I then set off back to Salzburg to continue performing Alberto in La Gazzetta for the Salz- burg Landestheater and travel back and forth to Cardiff where I start a new production of Don Pasquale by Donizetti singing the role of Ernesto. Later in the year, I will also be in Es- tonia and then back to Austria for two new debuts soon to be announced. It is a busy year which I am very excited about, as I am visiting new cities and also learning new roles. I live for mu- sic and studying music is one of the favourite parts of my job. Unforgettable will be taking place on February 14, 15 and 16 at the Nation- al Archaeology Museum, Valletta at 8pm. Bookings: http://www.ticketline. com.mt/ "I would like to see more audiences in our venues and I encourage the Maltese public to participate more in the music scene" Nico Darmanin will be performing alongside singer Jasmine Abela during 'Unforgettable'. Photo by Brian Grech