Barocco Foundation presents Sip & Listen: South American Musical Journeys to be held on 20 November 2026 at the historic St Augustine Priory Apse in Valletta, offering audiences an exceptional exclusive evening that blends musical artistry with architectural heritage. As part of the Sip & Listen series, the event invites attendees to enjoy prosecco during the piano performance, creating an atmosphere of refined conviviality within one of the city’s most evocative sacred spaces.
The recital showcases a curated selection of works that illuminate the depth of South America’s musical identity. Through compositions by Ernesto Nazareth, Chiquinha Gonzaga, Heitor Villa‑Lobos, Egberto Gismonti, Nelson Ayres and Astor Piazzolla, the programme traces a vivid arc across the region’s cultural landscape. Listeners will encounter the rhythmic pulse of Brazilian choro and maxixe, the lyrical charm of salon traditions, the bold modernist colours of Villa‑Lobos, and the unmistakable emotional intensity of Argentine tango. Together, these works form a compelling narrative that moves between popular and classical idioms, tradition and innovation, introspection and exuberance.
The evening features Brazilian pianist, composer and musical director Bruno Arruda, whose international career reflects a deep engagement with both classical and Brazilian musical traditions. A graduate of the University of São Paulo (USP), Arruda has pursued advanced studies at the Tchaikovsky Conservatory in Moscow and has performed widely across Europe and South America. His work includes theatre composition, recording projects and the co‑authoring of children’s books accompanied by original music. Now based in Malta, he continues to contribute actively to the island’s musical life as a pianist accompanist and collaborator.
Following the recital, guests will be invited to participate in an exclusive guided tour of the St Augustine Priory. This rare opportunity offers insight into the site’s architectural layers, historical significance and hidden spaces, providing a deeper appreciation of one of Valletta’s most intriguing heritage locations. The combination of live performance, prosecco enjoyed during the concert, and a post‑event exploration of the Priory creates a multifaceted cultural experience that is both enriching and memorable.
South American Musical Journeys will be held at the recently restored St. Augustine Priory Apse, Old Bakery Street, Valletta, on Friday 20 November 2026 at 7:30pm. Entrance to the concert is at a suggested donation of €25 including prosecco. One can obtain the tickets prior to the concert from the venue itself or by email: baroccobookings@gmail.com / baroccomalta@gmail.com or phone 79680952.