Friday, June 18, 2010

KK Jazz Fest platform for Sabahan musicians

KOTA KINABALU: The first batch of musicians performing for the Kota Kinabalu Jazz Festival (KKJF) was introduced at a press conference yesterday, which was also held to finalise the details for the event. Counting as its fourth edition thus far, the KKJF is expected to be the largest yet, featuring a full stable of 10 talented performers.

A strong representation of musicians from Sabah and Peninsular Malaysia has raised questions as to the festival’s objectives when it comes to planning its lineup of performers. Co-organising chairman Roger Wang explains that the festival is largely meant to support and highlight local talent.

“The ratio has changed, definitely,” said Wang. “Before, it was harder to find good enough acts to fill the list. Now we’re at the stage where we have more than enough talented local jazz performers.”

The Society of Performing Arts, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah (SPArKS) Advisor Datuk Adeline Leong adds, “We usually have two or three international bands for every concert.”

The committee has indeed strengthened its initiative behind promoting local talent, as displayed in a long string of fringe events that were held leading up to the festival.

These mini-performances were meant as teasers to raise public awareness and interest in KKJF, also serving as platforms to showcase both the Sabahan musicians who count as performers for the main festival as well as guest artistes invited solely for the purpose of playing at the fringe events.

Continue reading (Incl. Pic) at: KK Jazz Fest platform for Sabahan musicians
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