EU Funds: Supporting and Preserving the Maltese Festa Tradition

September 21 2024 08:15:36 by PCLMedia

As the vibrant season of the traditional Maltese ‘festa’ comes to a close, it's essential to recognise the year-round dedication that sustains this cultural cornerstone. Behind the scenes, countless volunteers across Malta and Gozo invest tireless efforts to keep these beloved traditions alive. While the public enjoys the festivities during summer, the work behind maintaining and evolving the ‘festa’ is a continuous endeavour. A key player in this effort has been the European Union (EU), providing vital financial support to band clubs and voluntary organizations through funds secured with the assistance of *Servizzi Ewropej f’Malta* (SEM).

Sustaining Maltese Traditions with EU Support

Over the years, various EU funding schemes have played a pivotal role in helping band clubs and other organizations maintain their activities and preserve Maltese cultural heritage for future generations. EU funds have enabled infrastructural improvements, the acquisition of essential musical instruments, and the preservation of artefacts related to the Maltese feast, among other investments.

Through the assistance of SEM, many band clubs from different localities across Malta and Gozo have been able to access EU funds, facilitating projects that would have otherwise been beyond their financial reach. These projects not only enrich the local community but also ensure that the Maltese festa tradition is passed down to future generations in its full vibrancy.

SEM’s Role in Promoting EU-Funded Initiatives

Throughout this summer, SEM embarked on a campaign to showcase the crucial behind-the-scenes work of various band clubs. The aim was to raise awareness of how EU funds are being used to enhance Maltese cultural heritage and to demonstrate that with a solid project idea and determination, voluntary organizations can successfully implement EU-funded projects.

SEM visited 11 band clubs that have benefitted from EU funds, including notable ones like *l-Għaqda Mużikali San Ġużepp* in Ħal Għaxaq, *is-Soċjetà Mużikali Beland* in Żejtun, and *is-Soċjetà Mużikali Santa Margerita* in Ta’ Sannat, Gozo. These visits highlighted the diverse ways in which EU funds are contributing to the sustainability and growth of the ‘festa’ tradition.

Types of EU-Funded Projects

EU funding has supported a variety of projects for Maltese band clubs, including:

- Infrastructural Restoration: Restoration of historic buildings and artefacts, such as statues and religious items central to the Maltese feast. - Club Premises Improvement: Refurbishment of facilities and enhancement of administrative spaces. - Musical Instrument Acquisition: Providing modern instruments to ensure musicians can continue their training and performances. - Volunteer Support: Purchasing necessary equipment and materials to aid volunteers in their essential work. - Educational and Historical Projects: Publication of commemorative materials and historical documents that preserve the legacy of musical societies and their cultural significance.

These projects are essential for maintaining the cultural and social fabric that the Maltese festa represents, ensuring that it remains a dynamic part of Malta's heritage.

LEADER Funds: Fostering Rural Communities

One of the primary EU funding streams supporting Maltese band clubs is the LEADER programme. This initiative focuses on improving the quality of life in rural areas by supporting innovative, small-scale community projects. Unlike other funding programmes, LEADER targets three rural regions: 17 localities in south-east Malta (including Żurrieq and Qrendi), 16 towns in north-west Malta (such as Siġġiewi and Mosta), and the entire island of Gozo.

LEADER projects, administered by Local Action Groups (LAGs) such as GAL Xlokk, GAL Majjistral, and the Gozo Action Group Foundation, have enabled various band clubs to carry out meaningful projects in their communities. These projects have a wide-reaching impact, fostering local pride and ensuring the continued vibrancy of rural areas.

Expanding Opportunities: New EU Funding Calls

The success of these projects has led to anticipation for new EU funding calls under the LEADER programme. These calls, expected in the coming weeks, will target not only band clubs but also other voluntary organisations, local councils, schools, and various community groups. SEM is encouraging interested parties to register under the ‘Culture’ category on their website to receive updates and guidance on the application process.

Band clubs should also be aware that EU funding opportunities are not limited to the LEADER programme. Many clubs have successfully obtained funding through the Erasmus+ programme and the European Solidarity Corps, enabling them to engage youth in projects that raise awareness of Maltese cultural traditions, particularly the festa. These programmes foster international collaboration and cultural exchange, further enriching Malta’s cultural landscape.

Upcoming Regional Meetings

For band clubs and other organizations looking to explore EU funding options, SEM will be hosting regional meetings starting in October. These meetings will provide detailed information on open EU funding calls, as well as insights into the services SEM offers to assist with the application process. Open to the public, these sessions will cater to six regions across Malta and Gozo, ensuring that potential beneficiaries from all areas have the opportunity to learn how they can tap into EU resources.

Preserving Malta’s Cultural Heritage for Future Generations

The Maltese festa is not just an event; it is a living, breathing tradition that binds communities together. With the continued support of EU funds, and the dedicated efforts of volunteers, band clubs, and local organisations, Malta’s rich cultural heritage will remain a vibrant part of its future. By leveraging EU funding, Maltese band clubs are not only preserving the past but also ensuring that future generations can experience the full splendor of this centuries-old tradition.

As new funding opportunities emerge, and with the continued support of agencies like SEM, the Maltese festa tradition will undoubtedly continue to thrive and evolve. Read more about The Festas of Malta and Gozo