Written by Rahimah Syakirah
It seems like there is some misconception that jazz is just a music genre for older generations. This is completely wrong, and the Borneo Jazz Festival 2024 returned to prove that jazz is to be enjoyed by music lovers of all ages!
Held at the lush green surroundings of the Eastwood Valley Golf and Country Club in Miri, Sarawak, the lineup was an incredible return for the anticipated event featuring international artists like Makkaya Mccraven, Rio Sidik, Ta’dan, and the inimitable Malaysian Queen of Jazz, Sheila Majid. Sarawak’s Assistant Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Dato Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, mentioned in his opening speech at the festival’s launch that music is important and helps to transcend across boundaries to connect people from different countries. With ‘Jazzy Miri; as the theme of this year’s event, he said that he hoped that Borneo Jazz Festival would also spark more interest from tourists to come to Miri and enjoy the fun and festivities the city provides. Cue the soulful sounds of Indonesian jazz artist Rio Sidik’s trumpet, and the opening for an epic Borneo Jazz Festival 2024 was official!
Perhaps what sets Borneo Jazz Festival 2024 apart from other festivals and concerts is the fun and interactive atmosphere. The bar-like seating this year let the audience enjoy the performances while munching on snacks and staying hydrated. Needed a little break from dancing and singing along? The various kids and adults workshop gave you an opportunity to learn something new, and even meet some of the artists themselves. A star-studded lineup ensured the nights were filled with a diverse range of styles, from slow, groovy beats to energetic and soulful performances. The smooth and melodious songs of Ta’adan and WVC Jazz Ensemble were sway-inducing while artists like Gerhana Skacinta and Sheila Majid bumped up the energy with seriously high-octane performances that made you wanna jump and sing your hearts out! With everyone jumping to dance right up at the stage front, this was another Borneo Jazz Festival full of memories.
