Few instruments possess the ability to move so effortlessly between intimate reflection and dazzling virtuosity as the clarinet. Its voice can be warm and conversational, tender and lyrical, or brilliantly expressive, revealing an extraordinary emotional range that has captivated composers and audiences for centuries.

On Sunday, 8th November 2026, acclaimed Maltese clarinettist Michael Pantalleresco will take centre stage at Villa Corinthia in a concert devoted to two of the most celebrated works ever written for the instrument: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's Clarinet Quintet in A major, K.581 and Carl Maria von Weber's Clarinet Quintet in B-flat major, Op.34.

Presented in the refined surroundings of the historic Villa Corinthia, the concert offers a rare opportunity to experience the clarinet's expressive world at close quarters through two masterpieces that stand among the crowning achievements of the chamber music repertoire.

Mozart's Clarinet Quintet, written in 1789 for his friend and collaborator Anton Stadler, remains one of the most cherished works of the Classical period. Distinguished by its luminous beauty, graceful lyricism and profound humanity, the work unfolds with an effortless elegance that continues to enchant audiences more than two hundred years after its creation. The clarinet and strings converse as equals, creating music of remarkable intimacy and emotional depth.

Composed a generation later, Weber's Clarinet Quintet embraces the spirit of Romanticism with colour, imagination and theatrical flair. Written for the virtuoso Heinrich Baermann, the work showcases the clarinet in all its brilliance, combining dazzling technical displays with moments of exquisite lyricism. Rich in character and dramatic contrast, it is a joyful celebration of the instrument's expressive possibilities.

Together, these two masterpieces chart the artistic journey of the clarinet from the poised refinement of the Classical era to the passion and exuberance of the Romantic age, revealing why it remains one of the most compelling voices in music.

For this special performance, Michael Pantalleresco will be joined by an outstanding ensemble of distinguished musicians:

· Stefan Calleja, violin

· Samuel Cutajar, violin

· Gordon Cervoni, viola

· Desirée Calleja, cello

Collectively, these artists bring experience drawn from leading orchestras, prestigious conservatoires and renowned concert venues across Europe, ensuring a performance of exceptional artistry and musical insight.

As the autumn light fades over the gardens of Villa Corinthia, audiences will be invited into an evening of beauty, conversation and musical storytelling, where some of the finest chamber music ever written will unfold in one of Malta's most elegant cultural settings.

Programme

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart Clarinet Quintet in A major, K.581

Carl Maria von Weber Clarinet Quintet in B-flat major, Op.34

Performers

Michael Pantalleresco – Clarinet Stefan Calleja – Violin Samuel Cutajar – Violin Gordon Cervoni – Viola Desirée Calleja – Cello

Date: Sunday, 8th November 2026 Time: 5.30pm Venue: Villa Corinthia, Corinthia Palace Hotel, Attard

Featuring one of Malta's leading clarinettists alongside an exceptional chamber ensemble, Two Masterpieces, One Remarkable Instrument celebrates the extraordinary voice of the clarinet through two landmark works by Mozart and Weber. Set within the intimate surroundings of Villa Corinthia, the concert promises an afternoon of elegance, virtuosity and timeless musical beauty.

Book your tickets here.