And this weekend, music lovers are invited to experience the beauty of jazz, in all its forms, at the first-ever Royal Selangor Jazz Festival: a 12-hour event featuring a diverse lineup, from emerging talents to seasoned musicians.
According to managing director Yong Yoon Li, Royal Selangor has long had an affinity for the genre. “We have been hosting jazz weekends at the Royal Selangor Visitor Centre since the borders reopened in 2021 following the Movement Control Order,” he told FMT Lifestyle.
“We noticed a strong following of returning audiences, and it inspired us to organise a full-fledged festival.”
The event aims to shine a spotlight on performers from the local jazz industry, while inviting the public to explore Kuala Lumpur’s thriving musical and cultural scene. It is also being held to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Royal Selangor Visitor Centre this year.
To that end, 17 acts will be performing across four stages, including prominent names such as Janet Lee, The Frankie Sixes, FAZZ, The Shang Sisters, Junji Delfino, David Gomes, Az Samad, BonaHop, Kirana Kay, and the UiTM ensemble. Expect a day of soulful melodies, inspired improvisations, and smooth grooves!
There will also be also plenty of fun activities to keep festivalgoers occupied, including talks, jam sessions, quizzes, a photo booth, and even a booth featuring rare vinyl records.
Cinephiles, too, are in for a treat, with film screenings that will take them through the rich culture and history of jazz. And, of course, you won’t go hungry, as there will be food trucks galore at the venue!
One performer to look out for is jazz pianist, composer, arranger and producer Tay Cher Siang, who also serves as the festival curator.
“It is definitely an honour and pleasure to take on this role. I hope visitors will have fun, be moved by the music and the whole experience, and discover there are so many local talents they may not know about,” he said.
Tay will be performing at various points during the festival, including a session with his band WVC Ensemble, who will be performing originals and rearrangements of classic Malayan tunes. He will also be joining performer Az Samad for a talk titled “Irama & Lagu: Searching for a Malaysian identity in Jazz”.
With so many performers of “note” at this festival – musical pun clearly intended – this is one event that can’t be missed!
Royal Selangor Jazz Festival
When:
July 14 (Sunday)
Where:
Royal Selangor Visitor Centre,
4, Jalan Usahawan 6, Setapak Jaya,
53300 Kuala Lumpur
Tickets:
RM150 (normal price)
RM30 (children below age 12)
Tickets can be purchased here. For more information, visit the Royal Selangor Visitor Centre website. Also follow them on Facebook and Instagram.