Meet THE MUSICIANS
The musicians of Folk Underground are a collective of friends, musicians and cultural custodians dedicated to the performance of għana, Malta’s traditional form of sung oral poetry. United by a shared passion for this unique vocal tradition, the group brings together seasoned practitioners and new voices to explore the many expressions of għana — from narrative ballads to improvised duels and playful, satirical verse.
Drawing on deep respect for the tradition, they offer performances that remain true to the roots while making the form accessible and compelling for contemporary audiences, locally and internationally. Their repertoire revives timeworn stanzas and timeless melodies, breathing new life into them through modern harmonies, inventive arrangements, and new interpretation. With virtuosic guitar accompaniment and captivating vocal interplay, The aim is to present the vocal tradition not as a relic, but as a living contemporary expression — one that continues to evolve, inspire, and resonate.
MARIELE ZAMMIT
Mariele comes from a family deeply rooted in music, with both her mother and grandfather being musicians. This rich musical heritage fostered in her a profound appreciation for Malta’s distinctive vocal tradition. In 2018, under the guidance of Mikiel Cumbo l-Iżgej, she was introduced to the traditional high-pitched singing style. Since then, Mariele has dedicated herself to exploring the expressive qualities of this vocal tradition, expanding its possibilities through contemporary and interdisciplinary contexts. Her unique voice, shaped by both tradition and innovation, has established her as one of Malta’s most sought-after vocal artists on the island, captivating audiences and breathing new life into Malta’s rich musical heritage.
MIKIEL CUMBO L-iżgej
Mikiel, affectionately known as L-Iżgej, is Malta’s foremost exponent of La Bormliża, a rare and technically demanding folk singing tradition known for its soaring, high-pitched vocal style. Introduced to għana at an early age, he went on to become one of the tradition’s leading practitioners and most dedicated custodians. Through his mentorship of emerging singers, Mikiel continues to ensure the preservation and future of this unique Maltese vocal heritage.
George Aquilina Nofsillejl
The Aquilina family has long been rooted in Malta’s folk music traditions. George Aquilina learned from his father, the late Carmelo Aquilina Nofsillejl, a celebrated guitarist who accompanied renowned guitarists, including Karmenu Cardona It-Tapp. Inspired by this legacy, George dedicated himself to mastering Maltese guitar playing, a passion he has passed on to his son, Karol. Together, they continue the family’s commitment to preserving Malta’s musical heritage.
Karol Aquilina Nofsillejl
Following in his father’s footsteps, Karol Aquilina is a young guitarist with a deep passion for the Maltese guitar, classical guitar, and flamenco. His musical education began under the guidance of his father, George Aquilina, alongside formal studies in classical guitar and music theory. Inspired by Malta’s għana tradition and traditional guitar styles, Karol has immersed himself in the distinctive style inherited from his grandfather, the renowned Carmelo Nofsillejl. Through years of family mentorship, he has developed a mastery of its intricate techniques while continuing to expand his knowledge of music. At just 17 years of age, he has already established himself as one of Malta’s most promising young musicians and a leading exponent of traditional Maltese folk guitar.
ANDREW ALAMANGO
A musician and researcher dedicated to preserving and celebrating Malta’s musical heritage. For over two decades, he has collaborated with artists, musicians, and researchers, uncovering historical recordings and rare instruments and bringing them to life through performance and contemporary interpretation. His work has included collaborations with writers, poets, and għana singers, notably the late Frans Baldacchino il-Budaj. In recent years, Andrew has focused on performing, publishing, and releasing archival recordings that preserve and share the island’s unique sonic memory.
“With thanks to Teatru Malta for the images and for the creative legacy from which this journey first emerged.”
