Carmelo Pace (1906 - 1993)

A reticent recluse trained locally, speculatively autistic, taking correspondence courses in composition, devoting himself to teaching, and pursuing a relentless work ethic, Carmelo Pace rarely left the place, living in Sliema. Pioneering folklorist and għana proponent from at least the early 1930s – ‘the first composer to take an active interest in Maltese folk music’ (Joseph Vella, 1994) – his output was copious. Over 500 scores, including operas, symphonies, concertos and ten numbered string quartets. Most remain obscure and unpublished.