Ethnic groups to perform at Sarawak Gong Fest 2009

KUCHING: The inaugural Sarawak Gong Festival 2009 slated for June 27 in Miri will showcase the different types of Dayak gongs.

Organised by the State Museum Department, the event will feature performances by seven ethnic groups — Lun Bawang, Kayan, Tagal, Bisaya, Iban and Bidayuh - commencing from 7.30pm to 10.30pm at Imperial Hotel.

“Currently we have seven confirmed groups but the number could increase to 10. The focus is mainly on groups who use gongs as their main musical instruments.

“The performances will be accompanied by several dancers of between 10 and 12 per group,” said museum director Ipoi Datan.

“It will be a very exciting performance as each group has its own beats, tempos and tunes. The public are urged not to miss the show,” he told a press conference at the museum here yesterday.

He added that though the festival is held for the first time this year, the festival will be an annual event of the department.

“The festival is meant to compliment the Miri Jazz Festival and the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF). It is aimed at developing the festival concept,” said Ipoi.

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