KUCHING – The Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) 2026 will welcome Drum Up, a percussion ensemble from the Philippines, for an exclusive interview and performance showcase at the Media Centre, Casuarina Hall, Damai Beach Resort on 28 June.
Scheduled between 11:30 am and 12:00 pm, the session will highlight the group’s distinctive approach to rhythm and audience engagement.
Drum Up, under the leadership of Neil Cervantes, has built a reputation for transforming traditional performances into participatory experiences.
Their drum circles invite audiences to join in, creating a communal atmosphere where rhythm becomes a shared language.
This interactive style has been praised for breaking down barriers and fostering connections across diverse communities.
The ensemble’s work blends indigenous percussion traditions with global rhythms and contemporary influences.
By weaving together these elements, Drum Up reflects both cultural heritage and modern creativity, aligning with RWMF’s 2026 theme, “Regenerations: Roots & Rhythms.”
The festival’s focus on evolving traditions through new forms of expression resonates strongly with the group’s philosophy.
Audience participation is central to Drum Up’s performances. Each show adapts to the energy of those present, with spontaneous interaction shaping the outcome.
This balance of structure and improvisation ensures that no two performances are alike, and participants often leave with a sense of collective achievement.
The ensemble views rhythm as a universal language that transcends cultural and linguistic boundaries.
In interviews, they have emphasised how drumming can unite strangers, creating bonds through shared beats and movements. This approach has made their performances not only entertaining but also deeply meaningful for communities worldwide.
Performing in Sarawak offers Drum Up a unique opportunity to connect with audiences in a setting rich in cultural diversity and natural beauty.
The Rainforest World Music Festival, held annually at Damai Beach, is recognised for its immersive environment where artists and audiences engage in cultural exchange. For Drum Up, this backdrop enhances the communal spirit of their drumming circles.
The group also sees their role as bridging musical traditions from different parts of the world.
By incorporating rhythms from various cultures, they aim to highlight the interconnectedness of human expression. Their participation in RWMF underscores the festival’s mission to celebrate diversity while promoting unity through music.
As part of ASEAN’s vibrant artistic community, Drum Up’s presence at RWMF 2026 reflects the festival’s commitment to showcasing regional talent alongside international acts.
The ensemble’s interactive style is expected to leave a lasting impression, reinforcing the idea that rhythm can redefine how audiences experience music.
Looking ahead, Drum Up hopes to inspire future generations to embrace rhythm not just as performance but as a collective experience.
Their legacy, they believe, lies in encouraging people to see music as a tool for connection, participation, and shared humanity.
