Karaoke Version of “In-Naħla Katerina” Released

Children everywhere are singing, dancing, and buzzing along to the joyful tune of In-Naħla Katerina. Written and composed by Michael Piscopo and performed beautifully by Phyllisienne Brincat, this lively song introduces young listeners to Malta’s very own endemic honey bee, Apis mellifera ruttneri. With its fun lyrics, playful sounds, and engaging rhythms, In-Naħla Katerina has captured the hearts of children across the country. Within just 24 hours of its release, the song sparked a wave of excitement in classrooms and early years settings, bringing the story of the Maltese honey bee to life through music.

Karaoke version now available

To build on this wonderful enthusiasm, the project team has recently released a karaoke version of In-Naħla Katerina. This version retains the cheerful and upbeat instrumental track but removes the lead vocals, allowing children the opportunity to take centre stage and sing the song themselves. This interactive approach encourages children to actively engage with the song rather than simply listening, which is an excellent way to reinforce learning.

The karaoke track is an invaluable educational tool that supports language acquisition, improves rhythm and memory, and promotes active participation through repetition. Whether used in schools, nurseries, or at home, it serves a variety of purposes: from individual fun and practice to small group activities or even school performances. By inviting children to sing along, the karaoke version deepens their connection to the message about the Maltese Honey Bee and its vital role in nature.

Record your version and send it to us!

We are inviting children and their parents to join in the fun by recording their own version of In-Naħla Katerina using the karaoke track. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a solo performance, a duet with a sibling, or a whole class coming together—the more voices, the better! These recordings are a wonderful way to see how children are responding to the song and engaging with the themes of nature and conservation.

Submissions can be sent to nahlamaltija@gmail.com. Selected recordings may be featured on the Foundation for the Conservation of the Maltese Honey Bee’s platforms or showcased at future events celebrating Malta’s national species. This initiative creates a community spirit around the project and allows children to take pride in their involvement.

A song with a purpose

In-Naħla Katerina is the first in a trilogy of songs launched in 2025 as part of the Maltese Honey Bee Education Through Songs and Rhymes project. This initiative is coordinated by Dylan Farrugia and Abner Joe Buttigieg on behalf of the Foundation for the Conservation of the Maltese Honey Bee. It is generously supported by the Small Initiatives Support Scheme (SIS), managed by the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector (MCVS), as well as the Ministry for Inclusion and the Voluntary Sector (MIV).

The character of Katerina, the cheerful bee mascot, and her song aim to nurture awareness among young children about Malta’s unique biodiversity. Through playful lyrics and catchy melodies, the project introduces children not only to the Maltese Honey Bee but also to the wider themes of language, environmental conservation, and the importance of protecting our natural heritage from an early age.

Importantly, the project benefits from the educational expertise of Professor Suzanne Piscopo, who ensures that all materials are developmentally appropriate and pedagogically sound. Her guidance guarantees that the songs are not only entertaining but also effective in promoting meaningful learning outcomes for young audiences.

Keep buzzing!

The release of the karaoke version adds an exciting new dimension to the project, making it easier and more fun for children to connect with the message and meaning behind In-Naħla Katerina. With your help, we can keep the buzz going strong. So, warm up those voices, grab the karaoke track, and start recording! Share your version of Malta’s favourite new bee song and join in celebrating our incredible native honey bee.

Together, let’s make sure the story of Apis mellifera ruttneri continues to inspire young minds and foster a love for Malta’s natural world that will last a lifetime.

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Disclaimer: This project has been funded by the Small Initiatives Support Scheme (SIS) managed by the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector (MCVS) supported by the Ministry for Inclusion and the Voluntary Sector (MIV). This project/ publication reflects the views only of the author, and the MCVS cannot be held responsible for the content or any use which may be made of the information contained therein.