Joseph Calleja

Regarded as one of the greatest tenor voices in the world, Mr. Calleja began singing at a young age, making his debut at the Astra Theatre in Gozo before winning an award at the Belvedere Hans Gabor Competition. He was also a prize winner at the Placido Dominigos Operalia International Opera Competition. In 2012, Mr. Calleja was presented with a Doctor of Literature Honoris Causa and is a member of the Board of Directors of the European Academy of Music theatre. Also in 2012, Mr. Calleja was voite as Gramophone magazine’s Artist of the year. He sings annually at the granaries in Floriana and has become world renowned for his voice, most notably in the 2013 film The Immigrant. After the launch of his international career, Mr. Calleja has lent his voice across numerous continents, singing in New York, London, Berlin, Chicago and Frankfurt, to name a few. He recently released a new album of his work, titled Calleja Verdi, that was released in February of this year. Some of his opera roles include the titled male role in Romeo et Juliette, the titled role in Faust, and Rodolfo in Puccini’s La boheme, to name just a few of his many roles. Mr. Calleja is the first cultural ambassador for Malta and was recently named the brand ambassador for Air Malta. He is also known for his philanthropic work; the Bank of Valletta began the Joseph Calleja Foundation which supports the less fortunate, especially children and families. He also began the Drake Calleja Trust to offer education and performance opportunities for young enigmatic musicians and talents who are either socially or economically disadvantages. He also lends his voice to charitable organizations; in 2017 he performed for the Inle Trust who endeavour to bring clean water, education and other supplies to people in Myanmar. In these ways, Mr. Calleja gives back to the global community, not only through philanthropic means, but by spreading the beauty of his voice and using the power of music to bring light to people’s lives.