The
history of this society is directly linked to that of Zebbug. This band
was founded in 1851 by Mro Filippo Galea. It is the oldest active band
in the Maltese Islands, and the circumstances which contributed to its
formation are intricately interwoven with the devotion towards Saint
Philip, which in turn is intimately involved in the creation of this
lovely town in the middle of Malta.
During the
years this society evolved from a local band into a musical society
expanding its scope. It has grown into an organization comprising
several sections, spreading its operation into new fields. Its members
are men, women, youths and even children who come from all walks of life
and who work on a voluntary basis hand in hand with various benefactors
and admirers of the society.
The main
scope was and still is the popular devotion towards St. Philip. In
recent years it has enhanced its social and cultural roles by organizing
various activities throughout the year with the full participation of
the people of Zebbug – making it one of the most active and esteemed
societies in Malta. In doing so, it did not only enhance its own
identity but also that of Zebbug. The successes achieved by the society
are also those of Zebbug. This has been possible through a combination
of the enthusiasm of the young members and the maturity of the elders.
In this way the society has managed to remain young in spirit through
renewal, to enlarge in an organized manner, eagerly living the present
while building for the future with the wisdom gained from the past.