BEKASI: Scores of international and local performers are expected to perform at the first Bekasi Jazz Festival slated for Oct. 8.
Bekasi Jazz Festival founder and chairman Yoyok Carry Riyanto said the program was aimed at introducing Jazz, which was deemed difficult and complicated by many, to the greater public in Bekasi, known as one of the country’s busiest industrial regions.
Yoyok, former bass player for Elfa’s Big Band, said the festival could also help Bekasi expose itself to the nation. “We should be proud that now Bekasi can stage a major jazz festival,” he said as quoted by kompas.com.
Some of the big names in the local jazz scene who are expected to perform include Idang Rasyidi, Ireng Maulana, Indro Hardjodikoro, Benny Likumahuwa and Cendy Luntungan.
International performers include Australian jazz collective Logic, Japanese Kyoto Jazz Massive, Gilgamesh from Egypt and MYMP from the Philippines.
The festival, which will be staged in Bekasi Square shopping mall, will have two main stages. The event is expected to attract more than 6,000 jazz fans.
Source: The Jakarta Post
