Maltin Biss & Destiny Band Oz: Celebrating Local Talent, Noble Causes, and International Honours

MALTIN BISS — A Night of Local Talent in Aid of a Noble Cause

Event poster

On Saturday, 18 October 2025 at 8:00 PM, the Malta Police Band will mark its 105th anniversary with Maltin Biss, a gala concert showcasing some of the country’s leading vocal talents and supporting the Malta Community Chest Fund.

Under the baton of Maestro Anthony Cassar, the band will be joined on stage by guest vocalists Mary Spiteri, Kurt Calleja, Kristy Spiteri, Mark Tonna, Nicole Hammett, and David Joseph Sammut.

The evening promises “a breathtaking mix of classics, contemporary hits, and patriotic tunes,” according to promotional materials.

Tickets are priced at €15 and are available via the Showshappening platform.

The concert will be hosted at Sir Temi Zammit Hall at the University of Malta in Msida.

A Cultural Celebration with Purpose

The event comes under the patronage of the Malta Community Chest Fund, with all proceeds dedicated to its charitable causes.

Over the years, the Malta Police Band has taken part in philanthropic events and even international performances in Rome and the Vatican, contributing to cultural diplomacy and social giving.

In a previous review of a concert by the Malta Police Band, The Independent (Malta) praised the ensemble’s ability to bridge the musical world with community engagement. The review noted a “musical journey woven with elegance and emotion — from the proud patriotism of The Chimes of Liberty to the poignant serenity of Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto.”

It also commended Maestro Cassar’s enduring passion, stating that decades at the helm have not dimmed his energy.

Voices from the Organisers

A spokesperson for the Malta Police Force described Maltin Biss as “a tribute to Maltese identity, music, and heart,” and urged audiences to secure their seats early for what is being billed as an unforgettable evening.

Maestro Anthony Cassar, speaking in past interviews on the band’s role, highlighted the institution’s mission: “the band serves both as ambassador of music and of the Police Force, creating bridges between people and their traditions.”

Anticipation and Significance

This centennial-plus five celebration is more than a musical event — it is a reaffirmation of Maltese cultural pride and solidarity. As one of Malta’s oldest continuous musical institutions, the Police Band carries both historical weight and contemporary relevance.

With a stellar line-up of voices and a resilient band tradition, Maltin Biss is poised to be a night to remember. The public is invited to be part of this artistic and charitable moment.

Event Details at a Glance

• When: Saturday, 18 October 2025, 8:00 PM

• Where: Sir Temi Zammit Hall, University of Malta, Msida

• Tickets: €15 via Showshappening

• Purpose: All proceeds to the Malta Community Chest Fund

Destiny Band Oz Celebrate Double Honours: ASA Songwriting Shortlist and European Award Win

Australian country-pop duo Destiny Band Oz are riding a wave of success this October, with two major achievements announced within days of each other.

On 1st October 2025, the group — fronted by Tessa and Thomas Libreri — revealed through their official Facebook page that they had received an extraordinary eight song shortlistings in the prestigious Australian Songwriters Association (ASA) 2025 Songwriting Awards.

“Wow! We’ve just heard from Clare Barrett Burgess, the CEO of the Australian Songwriters Association Inc., that we have had eight songs shortlisted in the highly respected ASA 2025 Songwriting Awards!” the duo shared with fans. “Thank you!”

The shortlisted songs, all penned by Thomas and/or Tessa Libreri, span a diverse range of musical categories — Open, Rock/Indie, Folk/Acoustic, Country, Contemporary/Pop/Dance, Comedy/Novelty, Australia, and Ballad — a testament to the pair’s versatility as songwriters.

The ASA’s multi-stage judging process will now move to the next phase, with new judges selecting the Top 30 in each category before the end of October. Winners will be announced at the ASA Awards Night in Sydney on 4 December 2025.

Reflecting on their ongoing connection with the ASA, Destiny Band Oz recalled previous recognition at the awards.

“We’ve already had the immense honour of being previous Rudy Brandsma Award Winners,” they wrote, “but Covid restrictions meant the awards event was an online one, so we weren’t able to perform or be presented with the beautiful Maton guitar prize on stage.”

The band also reminisced about earlier highlights, including the ASA’s inclusion of their music video This Is Our Land during a past online ceremony — a nod to their contribution to Australian songwriting and culture.

Despite being invited to attend recent in-person ASA events, scheduling conflicts prevented them from joining the celebrations in Sydney.

“Unfortunately, we haven’t been able to attend the last two ‘in person’ ASA Awards events in Sydney due to a gig clash in 2023 and another commitment last year,” the duo explained. “So fingers crossed we make it through, as we’d love to attend the awards in Sydney this year on the 4th December!”

European Recognition Follows

Just a day later, on 2nd October 2025, Destiny Band Oz shared yet another milestone: a win at the Red Carpet Award Show in Europe 2025, hosted by FPCM Media.

Their original song #InMyLife, written by Thomas Libreri and performed by Tessa Libreri, earned them the “Best Country Voice Duo” accolade.

“WINNERS! Best Country Voice Duo for original song I "In My Life,” the band posted, expressing gratitude to the award organisers. “Thank you so much Gaby and Peter, judges, and everyone behind the scenes.”

The Red Carpet Award Show, known for honouring international independent artists, adds to Destiny Band Oz’s growing list of overseas achievements, cementing their reputation as one of Australia’s most dynamic musical exports.

A Year of Momentum

2025 continues to be a standout year for the Victorian duo with Maltese roots, who have built a loyal following both in Australia and abroad for their heartfelt songwriting and genre-blending style. With multiple songs in contention for national songwriting honours and fresh international recognition, Destiny Band Oz’s momentum shows no sign of slowing down.

As the ASA 2025 Awards edge closer, fans will be watching to see if the duo’s impressive shortlist converts into more trophies — and perhaps a long-awaited return to the Sydney awards stage.