Saxophonist Val Valente passes away

Malta’s premier saxophonist Val Valente passed away yesterday.

Saxophonist Val Valente. (Photo: BOV 2011 calendar, 'Tribute to Maltese Musicians by Joe P Smith)
Saxophonist Val Valente. (Photo: BOV 2011 calendar, 'Tribute to Maltese Musicians by Joe P Smith)

Valente used to be an iconic fixture in Valletta's once bustling nightlife, serenading many a tipsy punter with his dulcet tunes.

Valente's fame was not only limited to our shores. In 2002, Valente had the honour of sitting on an international panel judges for the first Saxophone Competition in Kiev, Ukraine.

Malta had indeed lost a one of a kind musician.

In a statement, Labour's spokesman for culture Owen Bonnici said Val Valente was synonymous with the saxophone and is closely tied with the history of Valletta, back when the capital city was full of life and energy.

"Val Valente is well known for mentoring youngsters looking to sharpen their musical acumen and learn from this excellent maestro," Bonnici said.

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He was a great and very good musician.