JAZZ TRIBUTE TO MALAYSIAN SONGS

Venue : JB Arts Festival 2008, Dataran Bandaraya
Date : 19th July 2008
Time : 08.30 pm

Catch me perform LIVE together with Orkestra RTM's Big Band, among other numbers, I will be rendering a jazz version of P Ramlee's "Hujan Di Tengahari" and showcasing an original, "DIA" which will be performed for the first time ever to the public, all the more significant as it will be in my home state - Johor!

It is a definite date for Jazz and Big Band lovers to keep, especially those in and around the Johor Bahru area! We assure you will be treated to a wonderful and fun-filled hour of Malaysian favourites specially arranged by RTM's very own renowned arranger & conductor, Datuk Mokhzani Ismail, Datuk Johari Salleh, Helen Yap, Isabella Pek ....among others.




ORKESTRA RTM

Orkestra RTM is the first orchestra in Malaysia founded in 1961. Its pioneers, with strong backing from then Minister of Information, Tan Sri Ghazali Shafie, were all fervent jazz supporters who wrote songs in the jazz idiom, as well as playing and broadcasting Malaysian jazz music. Jazz reached its pinnacle of popularity from the 60s to the mid 70s. Despite the temporary retreat in the last decades giving way to other genres such as rock, rap, and hip-hop, Malaysian jazz music can make a comeback through big band format. Orkestra RTM is tasked with the responsibility to produce entertainment programs for broadcasting purposes. Therefore, it is rightfully the most suitable candidate to produce, perform and promote original Malaysian songs in the style of jazz.

When original Malaysian songs are presented in the common jazz idiom, it can create another effective means of promoting Malaysian music in the international arena.

Back in the home front, jazz music is very much appreciated in the elite society. It is very popular in weddings, functions, shopping complexes and entertainment outlets.

Original Malaysian compositions will now have a shared platform, international and nationwide.