KUCHING, Aug 9: Classical music and jazz came together in a memorable evening as A Jazzy Night of Classics (From Baroque to Bolling) brought audiences on a musical journey spanning different periods and styles.
The concert, presented by the Persatuan Muzik, Tarian dan Seni Kuching in collaboration with Simfoni Orkestra Negeri Sarawak (SONS) and the IMH Classic Ensemble, featured works ranging from the Baroque period to modern jazz-influenced compositions.
The programme included music by renowned composers such as Antonio Vivaldi, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Gustav Holst, Karl Jenkins and Claude Bolling.
Among the highlights were Vivaldi’s Concerto in G for Two Guitars, themes from Mozart’s The Magic Flute, Non Più Andrai, Jenkins’ Palladio, Holst’s Fugal Concerto and Bolling’s Suite for Flute and Jazz Piano Trio.
The performances featured musicians and conductors including Kenneth Chia, Joost Flach, Reginald V. Bernaldez, Kristene Alcances, Mark Malony Martinez, Desmond Tie, Kenny Then, John Wu and Lim Yee Qi.
The concert also provided a platform for experienced musicians to perform alongside music educators and young performers from SONS and the IMH Classic Ensemble.
This gave younger musicians the opportunity to gain valuable stage experience while learning from established performers and conductors.
Among the figures supporting the development of music and the performing arts in Sarawak is Dr. Geraldine Law-Lee, Ethnica Orchestral Project Advisor and Consultant.
Dr. Geraldine is also recognised for her work with the Sarawak International Festival of Music and Arts (SIFMA) and International Music House (IMH), where she has contributed to the development of music education and opportunities for young performers.
Her work has helped create platforms for young people to develop their talents while strengthening connections between Sarawak’s music community and international artists and institutions.
The concert was attended by Majlis Seni Sarawak (MSS) CEO Dr. Suffian bin Haji Jalet and Deputy CEO Encik Awang Ikman bin Awang Sepian, along with musicians, educators, parents, supporters and music enthusiasts.
The organisers said the concert was aimed not only at presenting quality performances but also at encouraging musicians to learn, collaborate and develop together.
The IMH Classic Ensemble, comprising students and faculty from International Music House, serves as a platform for young musicians to develop their musical skills, confidence and appreciation of classical music.
SONS, meanwhile, continues its role in developing Sarawak’s musical talent. Established in 1988, the orchestra has grown to include several components covering classical music, pop and jazz, choir, junior musicians and traditional music.
The collaboration between SONS and the IMH Classic Ensemble demonstrated how established musicians and younger performers can work together to strengthen the local performing arts scene.
Sarawak Daily also supported the programme as a media partner, helping to promote the concert and raise public awareness of its focus on music, arts education and community engagement.
The successful staging of A Jazzy Night of Classics reflected the continuing interest in quality musical performances in Kuching and the importance of providing opportunities for local musicians and young talents.
The organisers extended their appreciation to the performers, conductors, musicians, staff, partners, supporters, parents, concert-goers and media partners who contributed to the event.
The concert ultimately showed that classical music can continue to connect with modern audiences by bringing together different musical traditions, generations and artistic styles.
From Vivaldi to Bolling, the evening demonstrated that music remains a powerful way to bring people together while encouraging the next generation of musicians to continue developing Sarawak’s vibrant arts scene.
