Post by anastasia on May 23, 2015 0:05:16 GMT 7
KL International Jazz & Arts Festival 2015 @ Experimental Theatre, University Malaya, Kuala Lumpur (10 - 13/9/15)
Artistes Line Up:
Eric Wyatt
Eric Wyatt is a saxophonist born and raised in Brookyln, New York. He was introduced to the sax by his father Charles Wyatt, who played tenor and hung out with many of the great jazz icons: Charlie Parker, Gary Bartz, George Braith, Wilver Ware, Thelonious Monk, Dizzy Gillespie and more.
Eric had the privilege of meeting two great jazz masters, both of whom changed his life: Miles Davis and his godfather, Sonny Rollins. Eric recalls, “When I met Miles, I was 10 years old and was playing trumpet at the time. He was playing at the Bottom Line, a club in New York, and I never forgot all the energy and joy that this man brought to the audience. Sonny was a friend to the family and stayed connected to us after my father passed.”
Sonny Rollins also helped Eric record his first CD for King Records (Japan) titled “God Son” with the great Al Foster on drums, Rufus Reid on bass and pianist Mark Soskin from Sonny’s band.
Eric has been recording and traveling the world as both leader and sideman and continues to build an imppresive, solid resume. He has played with and recorded on records with Jeff Tain Watts, Rovert Glasper, Kenny Garrett, Wynton Marsalis, Roy Hargove, Donald Vega, Branford Marsalis, Bob Cranshow, James Spaulding, Keyon Harrold, E. J. Strickland, Jeremy Pelt, Willie Jones III, Clifton Anderson, Warren Wolf, Monty Alexander, Benito Gonzalez, Larry Willis, Stephen Scott, Justin Robinson and many others.
Eric has performed internationally in Japan, Shanghai, Hong KOng, Lebanon, Athens, Thessolnikki Greece, Nice, and Paris, France. He has recorded four CDs as a leader: “God Son”, King Records (Japan), “Live at the Half Note”, “The Blue Print”, and “Live at the Brooklyn Paramount”. His new CD entitled “From the Borough of Kings” is soon to be released and features Grammy nominated pianist from Kenny Garrett’s group Benito Gonzalez, Roy Hargrove bassist, Ameen Saleem, and drummer Shinnosuke Takahasi from Japan, who plays with legendary pianist Makoto Ozone. The album includes special guests Clifton Anderson, Dwayne Eubanks, and rising star drummer and finalist at the 2012 Thelonious Monk competition, Kyle Poole. This exciting project features many Eric Wyatt original compositions, two standards and a tune by pianist Benito Gonzalez.
www.ericwyatt-music.com
twitter.com/edubsax
www.facebook.com/eric.wyatt.167
Tizer Quartet
Driven by an explosive mix of jazz, rock, classical, jam band influences and Afro Cuban and world rhythms, Downbeat—the first studio album by TIZER, a multi-cultural band led by Boulder, CO native, keyboardist/composer Lao Tizer—throws down a high powered collection of 12 brand-new originals on this scintillating release of fresh instrumental music from one of today’s rising stars of the world-fusion genre. Establishing themselves in the contemporary jazz world over the past few years, TIZER has spurred comparisons of a modern twist to the 70s and early 80s heyday of jazz fusion, when trailblazing ensembles like Return To Forever, Mahavishnu Orchestra and Weather Report set the aesthetic standard.
Truly embodying the title and spirit of his 2007 solo album Diversify, Lao assembled a group of veteran world-class musicians to create a dynamic rich with new melodic, harmonic and improvisational possibilities. Co-produced by Lao and guitarist Jeff Kollman (GlennHughes, UFO, Chad Smith’s Bombastic Meatbats), the eclectic set includes five original compositions by Lao and numerous collaborations with his cohorts, including the first single “World In Rhythm,” co-written with Emmy winner and Grammy nominated guitarist Chieli Minucci, best known as founder and leader of Special EFX.
Over the past few years, TIZER—a 2011 nominee for “Jazz Group of the Year”–has taken their multi-faceted world fusion vibe around the globe, galvanizing thousands at events including the Java Jazz Festival in Jakarta, the Joy of Jazz Festival in Johannesburg, the Dubai Jazz Festival, Barbados Jazz Festival, the Caribbean Sea Jazz Festival and the Festival International Providencia Jazz in Santiago, Chile. In addition to their usual whirlwind of U.S. dates, their 2012 schedule in support of Downbeat includes the Jarasum International Jazz Festival in South Korea and four shows in Russia. While Lao was a “Best New Jazz Artist” nominee in 2002 and Diversify spent many weeks on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz chart, TIZER has a multi-genre, multi-national appeal that expands beyond just jazz enthusiasts. Their diverse resume includes performance slots alongside Zappa Plays Zappa, Jethro Tull, Isaac Hayes, Al Jarreau, Spyro Gyra, George Benson, Soulive, Babyface, Bruce Hornsby and Robin Thicke.
Those who haven’t yet experienced TIZER’s intensity, expansive arrangements and exciting soloing in concert got the next best thing with the group’s 2010 debut release TIZER Live, which captured the vibrant interaction of what Lao calls “the ultimate cultural and musical melting pot”; Italian-American New Yorker Minucci, African American violin great Karen Briggs (Yanni, Stanley Clarke, Chaka Khan) and Cuban born drummer/percussionist Raul Pineda (Michel Camilo, Chucho Valdes), in addition to Kollman, multi-instrumentalist Steve Nieves (Kenny Loggins, Loggins & Messina, Jagno) and Lao himself, who grew up in Boulder, Colorado. Bassist Rufus Philpot, who joined TIZER after that recording, hails from London. The concert recording at the world renowned Musicians Institute in Hollywood was TIZER’s very first live performance as a group; it included fresh interpretations of seven songs from Lao’s earlier recordings, including Diversify and Golden Soul (2001).
Downbeat marks the first time that Lao has co-produced one of his albums. Loving the big sound of the band and all the intricacies it has in the live setting inspired his simple concept when it came time to write and record the album. “Producing and mixing with Jeff, my goal was to give listeners a taste of the energy TIZER creates in the live setting, so most of the recording was done live in the studio,” he says. “While no solo on disc can capture what happens onstage, we wanted Downbeat to have the same blend and balance via strong, detailed arrangements and studio production. It all starts with a completely live rhythm section—drums, bass, percussion, keys—and that translates to an organic foundation to build from.”
www.laotizer.com/
twitter.com/LaoTizer
www.facebook.com/laotizer
Chieli Minucci & Special EFX
Chieli Minucci – guitarist, producer, composer – is the leader of the Grammy-nominated contemporary jazz group SPECIAL EFX, which formed in 1982. Minucci & Special EFX have recorded a combined 25 CD’s, 8 of those being solo releases. In addition Minucci has recorded and performed with top pop artists such as Celine Dion, Lionel Richie, Jennifer Lopez, Jewel, Mark Anthony, Jessica Simpson, Anasta-sia and others..
Jazz artists such as Bobby Caldwell, Chuck Loeb, Paul Jackson Jr., Marion Meadows, Jay Beckenstein/ Spyro Gyra, Kim Waters, Alex Bugnon, Gerald Veasley, Lao Tizer, Nestor Torez, Bob Baldwin, Jeff Lorber and many others. His father, Ulpio Minucci (concert pianist/composer) wrote the now ’standard’ 1955 hit song “Domani,” as well as “A Thousand Thoughts of You,” and “Felicia” (both sung by Nat King Cole). Also known as a composer for television and film, Minucci was nominated for 10 Daytime Emmy Awards and has won three, in 1998, 2007, and most recently in 2008, for his eclectic compositional work on CBS’s The Guiding Light. He has written music for well-known programs such as Good Morning America (theme), Bloomberg Radio (theme), Access Holly-wood, The 700 Club, and others. He also contrib-uted music to the sound-tracks of Bowfinger (1999), Legally Blonde (2001). and Panic (2000), as well as most recently to ‘Lifted’ (2007).
Minucci composed and produced the soundtrack for the Broadway Across America/Nickelodeon live stage productions of the hit TV series, Dora the Explorer (‘Dora’s Pirate Adventure’, ‘The City of Lost Toys’ and currently ‘Return to the City of Lost Toys’) which are currently touring interna-tionally. He also wrote and recorded original songs for the live stage production of Thomas & Friends Live™, (both ‘Thomas Saves The Day!’ and most currently, ‘A Circus Comes to Town’).
chielimusic.com/
twitter.com/ChieliEFX
www.facebook.com/ChieliMinucciandSpecialEFX?ref=br_rs
Ezra Brown
Gospel, blues, jazz, r&b, soul, hip-hop—language of the human experience. Ezra Brown’s music speaks this language. His horn serves as his translator, becoming a voice that speaks in tongues transcending any language barrier. Ezra’s sound — a culmination of southern comfort and urban grit, gives birth to a style that is new, yet familiar. This sound speaks from the soul. A sound Ezra calls Soul Muzik. When he picks up his horn, sound is transformed into a language that enters the soul producing an experience that is pure music. An experience that goes beyond sound becoming something that is felt. Music that translates the human experience for all to understand.
Ezra Brown uses his musical style to transform a mere story to a lyrical moment. This style makes him a much sought after force among his contemporaries. As saxophonist, keyboardist, music director, and arranger, he has collaborated with a broad spectrum of industry greats. He has worked with an impressive list of Grammy Award winning artists such as Cassandra Wilson, John Forte, and Charlie Daniels, BB King, Bobby “Blue” Bland. His works also includes Grammy nominated artists – Jennifer Hudson, Les Nubians, Calvin Richardson, Gordon Chambers and Latin artist, CuCu Diamantes. Ezra and his horn has also graced the world stage at several international music festival including: recently the 2013 KL International Jazz Festival – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, JazzAcona Festival – Acona, Switzerland; Black World Arts Festival – Dakar, Senegal; and Trans Musicales de Rennes Music Festival – Rennes, France, North Sea Jazz Festival – Rotterdam, Netherlands, 2013 South Carolina Jazz Festival, Solidays – Paris, France, and many more.
Constantly fine-tuning his artistic expression, Ezra is currently involved in several projects.While he is touring the world, he makes time to do many global workshops/ masterclass with kids and students about the music he plays SoulMuzik (a mix of R&B/ Jazz/ Blues/ Gospel) He also serves as a member of Andy Allo’s band (Prince’s Protige), Blitz the Ambassador; and as a band member for Cheryl Pepsii Riley at The Village Underground in New York City, the top R & B open mic night in the country. You can hear Ezra on MTVu’s Live Sessions, where he is featured with Blitz the Ambassador and John Forte “Breathe” video on MTVu; ESPN World Cup 2010 playlist Blitz the Ambassador’s “Something to Believe In”; and clothing label LRG presents The Kid Daytona “Lifted” w/ hip hop artist Styles P.
Ezra and his horn has something to say. The vehicle in which he chooses to convey this message is in the form of his Debut album ‘The Journey’, which was released July 2013. He is currently touring promoting the album with scheduled performances at Nicaragua International Jazz Festival 2014 and KL International Jazz Festival (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia).
www.ezrabrown.com
twitter.com/eZrabrown
www.facebook.com/eZrabrown?ref=br_rs
Benito Gonzalez
Born into a family of Venezuelan folk musicians, jazz pianist Benito Gonzalez has always had a deep-rooted appreciation for pastimes and traditions. Today, as a rising star of one of America’s finest musical traditions, Gonzalez has come to his current status by following in the footsteps of jazz’s ancestral forebears. The fusion of world rhythms and straight-ahead jazz makes this passionate performer an audience favorite all over the world.
Gonzalez has a golden touch on the piano, whether he’s playing a ballad or swinging for the fences.
– The JazzPage
Benito Gonzalez is being recognized as an exciting pianist and composer for his well-received debut album ‘Starting Point’ (Christian McBride, Antonio Sanchez, Rene McLean, Ron Blake) in addition to taking home first prize at the Great American Jazz Piano Competition.
Benito’s acclaimed sophomore album, ‘Circles’ (Ron Blake, Myron Walden, Azar Lawrence, Christian McBride, Jeff “Tain” Watts), reveals a very personal body of work as he emerges as a leader and an accomplished improviser. Recently, Benito received more critical attention for his work on Garrett’s Grammy-Nominated album ‘Seeds from the Underground’.
Gonzalez proves he can handle just about anything thrown his musical way.
– KeyboardMag
After almost seven years of touring with Kenny Garrett, Benito has added numerous festivals and international jazz club dates to his credit. He has also shared the stage with Curtis Fuller, Pharaoh Sanders, Bobby Hutcherson, Christian McBride, Ignacio Berroa, Roy Hargrove, Rene McLean, Steve Turre,Delfeayo Marsalis,Hamiet Bluiett, Antonio Sanchez, T.K. Blue, Nicholas Payton, Azar Lawrence, and Jackie McLean.
Gonzalez flashes killer chops and swings intensely alongside his world-class bandmates.
– Blues & Soul
His multi-cultural talents have led to frequent recording dates, from American jazz masters such as Kenny Garrett and Azar Lawrence, to West African musicians and Latin bands. Benito has also served as musical director for several Venezuelan Recording Artists.
Presently, Benito is touring the world with numerous jazz clubs an international festivals to his credit, including several extensive tours of Europe as leader of his own Benito Gonzalez Trio.
…Benito Gonzalez. Remember that name. A future star.
– Blues & Soul
www.benitogonzalez.com/
twitter.com/pianobg
www.facebook.com/benitopiano
Frederik Köster Quartet
Frederik Köster is a German jazz trumpeter, – Composer and – Arranger. According to Die Welt, Germany has with him a new trumpet star Koster grew up in his hometown in the Sauerland, the son of music teacher Friedel Koster. He studied music education in Detmold at Max Sommerhalder and then jazz trumpet and jazz composition and -Arrangement at the Cologne Music Academy. In the National Youth Jazz Orchestra, he was from 2001 to 2005 as a soloist, composer and arranger under the direction of Peter Herbolzheimer active. Since 2007 he teaches at the Institute of Music of the University of Osnabrück as professor of jazz trumpet (he has since 2010 teaches at the Hochschule für Musik und Theater Hannover).
In addition to teaching, he has worked in various projects. He played the trumpet with Albert Mangelsdorff, Randy Brecker, Ack van Rooyen and Lalo Schifrin, and Nina Hagen, the Sportfreunde Stiller and Jazzkantine. He also collaborated with Johannes Enders,Florian Weber, Simon Nabatov, Nils Wogram, Michael Wollny, Nils Landgren, Jane Monheit, Nils Petter Molvær, the WDR Big Band, the hr-Bigband and the Peter Herbolzheimer Rhythm Combination & Brass. As a composer and arranger, he wrote for the Cologne Contemporary Jazz Orchestra, Tom Gaebel, the Wednesday Night Big Band, the Youth Jazz Orchestra NRW and the Grand Central Orchestra. He undertook with bands concert tours to other European countries and to South Africa and Namibia. With his quartet Köster played at renowned jazz festivals such as Jazz Baltica, Moers Festival, Euro Jazz Festival in Mexico City or the North Sea Jazz Festival and toured at the invitation of the Goethe Institute by Mexico, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Honduras, Portugal and India. In recent years, his sound has changed; He now sounds like a “German jazz combo with American Jazz Appeal”. Köster plays, since June 2013 the band by Trilok Gurtu, with whom he was on an international tour.
In September 2006 he was awarded the prize for best soloist at the Jazz Hoeilaart International Contest in Belgium. Together with his Frederik Quartet In 2009 he received the 10,000 Euro New German Jazz Award, and in parallel also the prize for best soloist. 2010 his album was “signs of the times” with the Echo Jazz Award in the category Instrumentalist of the Year national (Brass / Brass). Also in 2010 he received the 10,000 euros WDR Jazz Award in the category “improvisation”. In 2013 Westfalen-Jazz Prize he was awarded, since it him “succeed … masterfully to unite with very individual sound on his instrument, compositional imagination and unbridled joy in improvisation diversity and clarity in his music.”
www.frederikkoester.de/
www.facebook.com/frederikkoster
Bastian Stein
Bastian Stein was born in Heidelberg (Germany). With 10 years he was studying classical trumpet as an exeptional student at the University of music and acting in Vienna! In that time he was playing in several youth orchestras and on some classical competitions (1st Price at “Prima la Musica”).With 19 years he moved to Amsterdam to start his Jazz studies at the Jazz conservatory in Amsterdam with teacher Ack van Rooyen, Ruud Breuls, John Rocco, Jan Oosthof and Jarmo Hoogendijk. In 2003, he became a member of the German Jazz Orchestra (Bujazzo), under the leading of Peter Herbolzheimer. 2005 he received the Hans Koller Price (New York Scholarship). In 2009, he released his Debut CD “Grounded” (Double Moon Records). In 2011, he was selected for the NASOM-Program (Next Austrian Sound Of Music), which supports Austrian musicians on concerts in abroad. In 2013 he released his second CD “Diegesis” (PIROUET Records) with his German Quartet.
By the end of 2015 he will release his 3rd Solo Album! since 2014, Stein has been a trumpet teacher at the University in Stuttgart. Next to his own Projects Bastian Stein Group, Bastian Stein’s Gravity Point and Bastian Stein/Jure Pukl CROSSfRONT, he has played with many different groups like: Rheinische Philharmonie, WDR Big Band, Joris Dudli Sextet, Rob Bargad Band, Flip.
Philipp & Ed Partyka Octet, Christoph Stiefel Isorhythm Orchestra, Andy Middleton Octet, Fritz Pauer Quintet, Vienna Jazz Orchestra (under the leading of Ed Partyka), German Jazz Orchester (under the leading of Peter Herbholzheimer), Sternal Symphonic Society, Ed Partyka Jazz Orchestra, Nouvelle Cuisine, Martin Reiter Octet, Nu Random, SK Invitational, Schwarzmarkt, Robert Bachner Big Band, Vienna Jazz Composers, Bernd Reiter Quartet, Markus Geiselhart Orchester, Jaqueline Patricio Band, Karl Sayer Quintet, Iris Camaa & Band, Karl Seyer Quintet, f*gner Wesely Quartet and many more.
www.bastianstein.com/
www.facebook.com/bastian.stein.5?ref=br_rs
Najwa Mahiaddin
A multiple award winning singer-songwriter, New York based Najwa is returning from her three year hiatus with a darker undertone in her music, experimenting with somber and minimalistic echoes over the usual warm piano accompaniments. Thus the Aurora EP is born- her sound is shamelessly stripped down into a bare electronic setting, her soul’s deepest shadows unveiled.
Perhaps it was the winters of Boston, having spent the last three years there pursuing her music degree at Berklee College of Music. Switching her playlist from Jill Scott, Erykah Badu and Billie Holiday to the likes of Little Dragon, James Blake and Evy Jane while braving the isolated icy paths far away from home may have had a little something to do with it.
A drastic departure from her debut R&B/neo-soul album Innocent Soul released way back in 2011, Aurora seeks to reaffirm her Malaysian roots by blending traditional elements from her Arabic and Indian influenced heritage with a more current soundtrack.
Najwa’s first single from Aurora, Seri Mersing, boldly weaves the ancestral ghazal folk song into a contemporary orchestration, intimating a cultural fusion of the old and new.
Born in Malaysia, ‘Najwa’ otherwise known as Najwa Mahiaddin first discovered music at the tender age of 3, fascinated by seeing her sister playing the piano and soon thereafter, began taking piano and vocal lessons herself.
What began as entertainment at family events quickly evolved into a powerful means of self-expression when she discovered the craft of songwriting. Creating her own music allowed her to channel her energy into something creative and new.
Najwa was encouraged to study engineering in Melbourne. During that time, she developed a strong following on social media through songwriting and regular performances at local venues. One of her social media followers was Malique of Too Phat, a Malaysian hip hop duo. Malique approached her and asked her to be a featured vocalist on Kau Yang Punya, the first single from his upcoming album. The single became a radio hit and put Najwa on the map of Malaysia’s music scene. Soon thereafter, Najwa was featured on another single released by Malique, Senyum. Najwa’s commercial success with Malique convinced Najwa to pursue a music career full-time. She soon enrolled at the Berklee Transfer Program in Malaysia, where she formed her first band and honed her skills as an arranger, composer and performer.
Soon, she was performing at some of the most well-known venues and events in Malaysia, including the MoonShine series, Mia Palencia’s Bedroom Musician Series, and Sunburst Music Festival. She later had the opportunity to co-headline a performance with Yuna at the prestigious Malam Nada Biru, as well as open for Babyface, Ne-Yo and Michael Bublé.
In 2011 she released her debut album, Innocent Soul, for which she was awarded Best New Artiste at the AIM as well as Best Local English Song for her single, Got to Go. During this time, Najwa was also nominated for awards at the Shout! Awards, one of the most popular award shows in Malaysia.
Got to Go, the single received positive reviews and huge airplay on Malaysian radios and in 2012 she headlined a solo concert at the reknowned Dewan Filharmonik Petronas.
Najwa then moved to New York in 2013 after graduating from Berklee College of Music, and has been collaborating and performing with Mostacho Experiment, with whom she toured Costa Rica, Nicaragua and the United States.
Her next EP, Aurora was released last year. The first single, Seri Mersing, has already been enthusiastically received by the press and garnered great reviews.
Aurora will mark a new milestone in Najwa’s career, who has already risen to the top of the music industry in Malaysia, where she has risen to celebrity status and earned some of the industry’s top awards and nominations.
www.najwamusic.com/
twitter.com/najwamahiaddin
www.facebook.com/najwamusic
Simon Seidl
Having moved to Cologne in 2008, pianist Simon Seidl studied jazz-piano under Hubert Nuss at the Cologne Musik and Dance Conservatorium (HFM Köln). At the age of ten, he began with classical piano lessons and in 2007 Simon was awarded the Ingoldstädter Jazz-sponsorship prize. Soon thereafter, until 2008, he began studies at the Conservatorium in Munich as a junior student. Between 2004 and 2007, Simon was a recipient of various awards with ‘Jugend Jazzt’ and was also accepted into the State Youth Jazz Orchestra of Bavaria. Alongside his own Trio including Robert Landfermann and Fabian Arends, Simon is active as a sideman in numerous ensembles across Germany.
Lessons/workshops with: Hubert Nuss, Simon Nabatov, Florian Ross, Hendrik Soll, John Taylor, Henning Berg, Achim Kaufmann, Phil Markowitz, Paulo Cardoso, Frank Wunsch, Dieter Manderscheid, Dietmar Fuhr, Wolfgang Engstfeld, Frank Gratkowski …
Festivals:
Acht Brücken Köln, Ingolstädter Jazztage, Jazzfest München, Trencin Jazzfestival, Jazztrain Hamburg …
Concerts:
Italy, Romania, Slovakia, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Kanada, Kosovo, France Hungary
Ongoing projects:
Simon Seidl Trio: Fabian Arends (dr), Robert Landfermann (b), Simon Seidl (p) Christoph Möckel Quintett: Christoph Möckel (ts), Menzel Mutzke (tp), Matthias Nowak (b), Fabian Arends (dr), Simon Seidl (p) Bloom: Menzel Mutzke (tp), Volker Heinze (b), Fabian Arends (dr), Simon Seidl (p) Maxime Bender Quartett: Maxime Bender (ts), Oliver Lutz (b), Silvio Morger (dr), Simon Seidl (p) Jakob Kühnemann´s Keenman: Jakob Kühnemann (b), Malte Dürrschnabel (as), Silvio Morger (dr), Simon Seidl (p)
Trumann Doktrin: Janning Trumann (trb), Reza Askari (b), Fabian Arends (dr), Simon Seidl Hendrika Entzian Quartett: Hendrika Entzian (b), Maximilian Jagow (b), Fabian Arends(dr), Simon Seidl (p) Sebastian Degen Quintett: Sebastian Degen (ts), Tim Hepburn (trb), Thomas Sauerborn (dr),Hendrika Entzian (b), Simon Seidl (p) Anne-Christine Heinrich Quartett: Anne-Christine Heinrich (fl), Jakob Kühnemann(b),Silvio Morger (dr), Simon Seidl (p) Paulo Cardoso/Simon Seidl Duo: Paulo Cardoso (b), Simon Seidl (p) Maximilian Jagow Quintett: Maximilian Jagow (ts), Riaz Khabirpour (git), Oliver Lutz (b),Oliver Rehmann (dr), Simon Seidl (p)
Jordan Rivers
Jordan Rivers is a self taught guitarist and singer. He is known as Malaysia’s George Benson. Starting very young since 1978, Jordan has performed with some of the top acts such as Asia Beat, Hunters,Fredo and the Flint Stones, Boy Kantindig, Free Flight, The Tentera Udara Orchestra, Abe Laborieln Randy Crawford, Dave Coz, Sheila Majid, Ezra Brown, Jessy J, Michael Veerapan, Arumugam goes to Alabama, and David Gomez. He has also been performing in the KL Jazz Project. Jordan has also played the Bali Jazz Festival, Mount Kiara Jazz Festival and the KL International Jazz Festival. He is also a lecturer at UCSI in Contemporary Guitar studies.
www.facebook.com/jordan.rivers.5811
Helga Violin
Hungarian violinist and singer Helga Sedli started studying music at the age of 8 and graduated as a musician from the Bela Bartok Conservatory in Budapest. She has a second degree as a mathematics and music teacher. During her travels around Europe, she joined many music conterts with violin and vocals.
She uses two violins; a classical one by hungarian master Zoltan Langer and an electric Yamaha SV-550 series violin. She equally enjoys playing on both of them.
After her European trip, she was contracted by the Hotel Mulia Senayan in Jakarta. Then in 2010, moving to Bali enabled her to join several bands and try different music styles. She started to play the electric violin besides the acoustic one, and also to play jazz, and collaborate with DJs.
By playing jazz, she really immerged herself in the art of improvisation. She teamed up with Dutch international DJ Rob Soundz and started performing in nightclubs around Indonesia. With the well–established Indonesian band Saharadja she performed at the Kuala Lumpur music festival in 2012.
At around the same time, she created her own world music band called Helga Fusion, acting as a leader, composer, arranger, lead singer and solo instrument violin player. Her European folk and classic background are represented in the band‘s repertoire. They are currently recording their first album.
Another project she initiated is the creation of a new jazz band using the electric violin, which is not a common instrument on the jazz scene. In this project, her part is to be a jazz violinist and singer. One of the recent highlights has been a concert in the Blue Jazz Club and Sultan Jazz club in Singapore.
Firmly based and established in Bali, Helga is a popular act at wedding events, either as a solo act or part of a string quartet. Also, she joins Ayu Laksmi and the Balawan band to play traditional Balinese music at events.
For the near future, Helga‘s aim is to share her passion with more people at more places. Enquiries to perform at several festivals in the South–East Asian area have been received, and her broad talent and interest will continue to ensure a busy performance schedule.
www.facebook.com/violinhelga
Hiroyuki Yagi
Since he started tenor saxophone in his elementary school band, he has been playing the instrument for more than 40 years. Even after he joined one of the biggest Japanese MNCs some thirty years ago (and still working for the company), he continues playing on and off in Japan, Germany, US and then Malaysia.
With his rich and deep horn sound and mainstream style inspired by Jazz Tenor Legends like John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins, Steve Grossman or Wayne Shorter, he has been loved by many musicians in Japan, such as Toshiki Nunokawa, Koichi Yabori, Kozo Suganuma, Masatoshi Mizuno and Kazuo Isatsu. He is featured in 5 CDs available in market, including leader album of world well-known drummer Kozo Suganuma, with Lincoln Goins on bass, Scott Kinsey on Keyboards, and Koichi Yabori on Guitar which is recorded in New York City in 2001.
He has been around KL, where he has established musical network on and off the scene, for his assignment as the MNC expat since 2012. Currently he is voluntary playing with many local players, such as Mike Verrapen, Steve Nanda, Daniel Fong, Julian Chan, Xiong, and Patrick Terbrack. He is also organizing monthly gig with his regular group with which he plays straight ahead instrumental jazz with other Japanese Jazz musician Based in KL.
Christy Smith
Bassist Christy Smith is a Professional Musician, Composer, Arranger, Teacher. Graduated with Bachelor of Music Degree from California University Fullerton, USA. Currently based in Singapore.
EXPERIENCE
Idiewild School of Music & The Arts, Compton High School Marching Band, Dance Band & Orchestra Louis Thomas / Director; 1972-1977: Communicative Artist: Big Band under Troy Robinson, Henry Grant’s Big Band, Battle of Bands Production Band Hollywood Bowl, Live Recording – Custom Fidelity Records: 1973 Bob McDonald / Director, Pat Williams /Guest Conductor, 1974 Bob McDonald / Director, Mercer Ellington / Guest Conductor; 1977: Performed at FESTAC, The 2nd Annual Black & African Festival of Arts & Culture in Lagos, Nigeria with “The Creative Musicians” Troy Robinson of The Watts Towers, L.A, California / Conductor, John Outterbridge/Director, Highlight Performance with Stevie Wonder, Fela and the African 70’; 1978: Toured Europe with C.S.U. Fullerton Symphony Orchestra, Keith Clark / Conductor, Performed at The Musique Vierine, Vienna; Estahazy Palace, Eisenstadt: Gratz & Salzburg, Austria; Lake on Rigi, Lucerne; Montreux & Geneva, Switzerland; London & Liverpool, England; Performing works were “The Firebird Suite”/ Igor Stravinsky “Three Places in New England” by Charles Ives, “Candide Overture” by Leonard Bernstein & Dvorak’s “9th’ New World Symphony”
1980 – 1982: Member of the Pacific Symphony Orchestra, Keith Clark / Conductor, Performing concerts with artists such as Anna Moffo, Sarah Vaughn, Jerome Rose & Leonard Pennario, also Carmen Dragon as Guest Conductor. Performed with the University Symphony Orchestra Aaron Copeland / Conductor. Performed works were “Appalachian Sprint” & “Billy The Kid Suite” by Aaron Copeland. Performed in the Combo & Big Band on the “Tropicale”. Carnival Cruise Lines. 1982 -1992: Helped form band called Phuntaine with Eddie” Gip” Noble,Gerald Pania, Joshua Sclaire working ail over Southern California. Member of Ray & The Idols / Ramone & The LA Band. Formed Power Trio Band & freelanced until arrival in Singapore.
SINGAPORE ENGAGEMENTS 1993 to Current: Performed with Charly & The Eddie Green Trio at the Somerset’s Bar, Westin Hotel. ,: M.C. and In-House Bassist with Chromazone for HARRY;S INTERNATIONAL, performing with artists including Wynton Marsialles, Ernie Watts, Eric Marienthal, Spiro Gym Teramasu Hino, Paul Jackson Jr. Eric McCain Jeremy Monteiro and many more. Actively involved in many projects including Recording Sessions, Television, National Arts Council events, International Festivals, School and Higher Education Programs. Currently teaching Double Bass at Bass Guitar at the National University of Singapore , United World South East Asia and Lasalle College of the Arts. Performing and Harry’s International Quayside 6nights a week. 2010:Jeremy Monteiro &friends with Chinese Orchestra, J.M. & friends perform in Beijing celebrating 20 years of Singapore and China Relations September,2010
RECORDINGS, MOVIES, TELEVISION. COMMERCIALS & OTHER PROJECTS
1974: “At The Storefront”, a PBS weekly program hosted by Paul Winfield on Channel 28, performed as of the Communicative Artists. “Focus”, a program on Channel 4, highlighting the Communicative Artists, Academy of Compton 1978:California State University Fullerton Symphony Orchestra records including Beethoven’s “9th Symphony”, Live at The Little Theatre.
1984: “Buffalo Bill Show” Prime time television program, starring Dabney Coleman featuring Esther Phillips.
1985: “Jojo Dancer Your Life Is Calling”, a motion picture starring Richard Pryor .:CD Michael Veerapen entitled “Pictures” on Scat Records. CD with Mark Chan entitled “Nature Boy”, released in Japan by Sound Asia, Producer Norihiko Yamanuki.
1998 RELEASE of my cd the ”Time Is Now Sessions“ featuring Keith Loftis. Recorded in Singapore. Many commercial recordings with Songzu. Local and international artist. Always involved with international festivals in Singapore MOZAIC the most rescent march 2007
www.christysmithmusic.com/
www.facebook.com/pages/Christy-Smith/623103047715773
Chris Ong
Chris Ong began as an aspiring guitar player amidst the demands of a modernizing Singaporean society. After successive strokes of serendipity, he sailed into the music scene with his crafty blues-rock solos and intricate speed riffs. He rose to prominence in the 1980s as the lead guitarist of progressive rock band Heritage. Interest in the Singaporean group swiftly escalated, eventually prompting local record labels to work with them. With an initiation the band released a ten-track album titled ‘Boy Becomes Man’, landing them as the opening act for Bob Dylan at his concert in Singapore. During his career with Heritage, Chris Ong toured throughout Southeast Asia influencing and simultaneously inspiring fellow musicians to accomplish their musical endeavors. After leaving to recollect his roots in blues-rock, he joined the New Vintage Band which self-produced two live albums that featured cover songs performed at underground clubs.
Chris Ong is known for his calm and composed persona juxtaposed with his signature vibrato squeal and stands among local musicians as a living legend. Remaining as the elusive ‘guitarist for hire’, he performed on stage at Singapore’s Esplanade Theatre with old friend Ernie Koh (Pest Infested) for a reunion concert in 2008, making it his latest public appearance to date.
Jamie Wilson
Born in Australia Jamie studied classical guitar as a child and made his first formal appearance at the age of 16 at the Sydney Opera House. By the time he was 18 he had won the MTV Australian National Guitar challenge earning himself the title ‘Australia’s Best Young Guitarist‘. He was invited to attend the prestigious G.I.T. Musicians Institute in Hollywood, California where he attended seminars and workshops giving live performances to enthralled audiences. He was awarded an honorary diploma and went on to play at the famous ‘China Club’ with music legends, Joe Walsh ( The Eagles), Jeff Baxter (Steely Dan and Doobie Brothers), Tim Bogart (Jeff Beck Group) and Clarence Clemens (Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band).
Returning to Australia he was offered the ‘top job’ in the guitar world and joined rock legend Jimmy Barnes on his national tour. There followed tours and performances with Australia’s music royalty, guitar maestro Tommy Emmanuel, Ian Moss, Richard Clapton and many others culminating in sharing the stage with American legend and Grammy winner Steve Miller. Jamie soon embarked on a solo career and although playing was his passion he also found time to teach and educate students in both classical and contemporary guitar. Endorsed by the Fender Guitar Company Jamie continued to grow and wrote some of his early compositions.
Focused mainly on ‘the blues’ his band acquired a considerable following and the respect of his peers. Like most young Australians the time came to pack his guitar and go overseas! He headed for London and spent two years there touring Europe and the UK playing some of the worlds most prestigious venues ……… Wembley Arena, The Royal Albert Hall and the legendary Ronnie Scott’s club.
1999 found Jamie enjoying life in Malaysia, initially on holiday but eventually making Kuala Lumpur his home. He has become one of the region’s top session guitarists playing, composing, arranging and producing literally hundreds of albums as well as touring and performing in USA, England, Australia, Canada, Switzerland, Japan, Taiwan, China, Indonesia, Brunei, Singapore and Malaysia.
He is well known for his multi faceted ability enabling him to work in many styles including performances with the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra and the Hong Kong Philharmonic! He tours and performs with some of Asia’s biggest stars including ‘Hong Kong Heavenly King’ Jacky Cheung, A-Mei, David Tao, Richy Ren, Eason Chen, Wong Lee Hom, Harlem Yu, Sky Wu, Fann Wong, Karen Mok, Elva, Leslie Cheung, Siti Nurhaliza, M.Nasir, Sheila Majid, Adflin Shauki, Anuar Zain, Dayang Nurfaezah, Ferhad, Ziana Zain , Ning Baizura, Jason Lo, Amir Yussof, Innuendo, Poetic Ammo, Ella, Ruhil Amani, Reshmonu, Shanghai Symphony Orchestra, Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra and many more artists. With sitar maestro Samuel J Dass Jamie was co-founder, producer, guitarist and composer of Malaysian fusion ensemble Prana which took the local music scene by storm with their innovative melodies and the fusion of musical elements from eastern and western music.
This new direction gave Jamie the opportunity to work within other ethnic based genres and he was soon playing a leading role in ‘Inner Space Performing Arts’ in their debut production ‘Inside Out’ which went on to win a whopping 8 awards at the BOH Cameronian Arts 2005 including Best Group Performance and Best Music production. In 2006 Jamie performed, with Prana, at the Gala dinner for the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in Singapore and in 2007 he was asked to accompany some of Malaysia’s top singers at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. Jamie’s many talents in the music arena have led him to be recognised not only as a session musician but also as a dynamic live performer and as such he was invited onboard as lead guitar for Siti Nurhaliza’s London concert at The Royal Albert Hall.
This show represented Malaysia’s ‘cutting edge’ in popular music and Jamie was honoured to be involved. Again demonstrating his passion for the Malaysian music industry Jamie was invited to compose and produce the signature tune for the Malaysian Ministry of Youth and Sport advertising campaign. ’Satu Suara’ featured some of Malaysia’s top artists and again demonstrated Jamie’s versatility. Jamie continues to make waves wherever he performs and his in depth understanding of the many genres of music both eastern and western makes him a highly adaptable and versatile musician. His prowess in composition is also highly recognised and has won critical acclaim. He is now producer, composer and guitarist with AkashA.
www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=742590605&ref=br_rs
Ronny Williams
www.rwdrums.com
www.facebook.com/ronnie.williams.96995?fref=ts
Eddie Layman
With over four decades of experience behind him, Eddie has established himself as a strong and diverse rhythm section player. Between New York, Los Angeles and Asia, he has been the driving force behind a wide array of artists such as Dave Liebman, David Sanborn, Lou Donaldson, Richard ‘Groove’ Holmes, Ray & Tom Kennedy and Roy Eldridge. Along with 27 Recordings under his belt, Eddie is definitely a force to be reckoned with!
eddielayman.com/
www.facebook.com/eddie.layman.5
Tinho Pereira
Brazillian multi-instrumentalist TINHO PEREIRA has the versatility and creativity of a virtuoso (guitarist, bassist, vocalist, producer). He works with musicians from all over the world, playing Latin jazz as well as various other styles and genres.
Tinho was born in a city near São Paulo called Araraquara, and started to play acoustic guitar when he was 6 years old, and classical studies at the age of 7 in the Villa Lobos Conservatory of Music. At the age of 12 he started playing electric bass, traveling around Brazil and South America performing all kinds of music in bars, night clubs, and ballrooms. Tinho graduated with a degree in classical guitar from the Conservatory Villa Lobos in Araraquara City, then went on to study electric bass at Conservatory Dr. Carlos de Campos in Tatuí City, and also studied classical guitar at the ULM in São Paulo, and further contentration in classical guitar, electric bass, arrangement and harmony with masters Walter Falcoski, Henrique Pinto, Ana Maria Bedaque, and Mario Campos.
Tinho has worked in many recording studios and played dozens of music clubs with different artists and bands around Brazil. In 2000 he played at the Fisiarmonic Festival in Reggio Emilia City, Italy, with the Mestre Oswaldinho do Acordeon. Tinho has based himself in Shanghai since 2005, playing at the JZ Shanghai International Jazz Festival with the Shanghai Latin Project, at the Hangzhou Jazz Festival with the Universal Quartet and at the Hong Kong International Jazz Festival with João Mascarenhas Trio. He also joined the Shanghai Big Band as a bassist, playing live concerts for national TV. Tinho now records and produces for studios in Shanghai, performs freelance, and has regular gigs with groups such as Alec Haavik’s Friction Five, the Superloukos Trio, the Universal Quartet, and with his own Tinho Pereira Trio. He also gives bass and guitar classes.
On Jan 24, 2011 Tinho released his 1st instrumental album, entitled ‘Hand Made’, on indie label Three Chord Truth. The entire contents of the album he composed, arranged, and produced featuring over 20 guest musicians from all over the globe.
www.facebook.com/tinhopereira
Maria Angela Rebano
Maria Angela has been singing since the age of 17 and her wide range of styles include Jazz, Blues, Rhythm and Blues, Latin, & Gospel.
She has performed with internationally renowned artists – Ernie Watts (USA), Randy Crawford (USA), Randy Bernsen, (USA), Michael Paulo (USA), , Don Alias (USA), Terumasa Hino (Japan/USA), Eugene Pao (Hong Kong), Broery Marantika (Indonesia), Ireng Maulana Indonesia), Idang Rashidi (Indonesia), Bubi Chen (Indonesia), Barry Likumahuwa (Indonesia) ,Willy Rebaño (Phils), Boy Katindig (Phils) Michael Veerapen, Paul Ponnudorai, David Gomes, Aubrey Suwito, Mac Chew. Jose Thomas, Lewis Pragasam and many others from the region. Recognized as one of the leading jazz divas in South East Asia, Maria continues to enthrall her audience at numerous shows, jazz festivals and private functions.
www.facebook.com/mariaangela.rebano?fref=nf
Barry Likumahuwa
www.facebook.com/pages/Barry-Likumahuwa/71511840371
UiTM Jazz Ensemble
Patrick Terbrack Quartet
Noted for his hard swinging style and deeply soulful and expressive sound, jazz saxophonist Patrick Terbrack is beginning to make his mark in the international jazz scene. Having already performed with seasoned veterans and jazz legends Willie Pickens, Rodney Whitaker, Benny Golson, Jimmy Heath, Michael Veerapan, Steve Thornton, as well as numerous performances with the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra Patrick is continuing a varied music journey as a both a leader and accomplished side-man.
An equally gifted saxophonist and composer Patrick is the recipient of numerous awards including Outstanding Musician of the Elmhurst jazz Festival and the 2008 Signature Songwriters Competition where his original composition 6 Here 12 won best Jazz Composition. Patrick has performed with Benny Golson, Curtis Fuller, Jimmy Heath, Jimmy Cobb, Rodney Whitaker, Lou Solof, John Faddis, Wycliffe Gordon, John Hendricks, Marcus Belgrave, Eric Reed, The Gerald Wilson Big Band, and The Melton Mustafa Big Band. He has performed at the JVC Jazz Festival, The Lima Peru Jazz Festival, The Detroit Jazz Festival, The Lansing Jazz Festival, The Jazz Showcase in Chicago, Dizzy’s Coca-Cola Room in NY and is constantly performing with the best jazz musicians in Kuala Lumpur such as Michael Veerappan and Steve Thornton as well as his own band The Patrick Terbrack Quartet. Patrick has toured extensively in the U.S.A, Peru and Colombia, South America.
Patrick Terbrack is currently a Lecturer in Music at Universiti Teknologi MARA and Director of the Kuala Lumpur Youth Jazz Orchestra. His first album “Invitation” was released in 2010 and is available on iTunes and Amazon.com. Patrick’s second album is currently in post-production and is scheduled to be released in late 2012.
www.patrickterbrack.com/
twitter.com/PatrickTerbrack
www.facebook.com/pages/Patrick-Terbrack/134533914578?ref=br_rs
The John Coltrane All Star Band
UM Jazz Ensemble
“Alfonso 25” – A Jazz Tribute to the Music of Alfonso Soliano ft The Guerzos
Born February 25th 1925 – June 16th 1990 was a Malaysian jazz pianist, conductor, composer and arranger of Orkes Radio Malaya. At the tender age of 7, Soliano worked as a professional pianist for the Grand Jubilee Bangsawan troupe. In the 1930s, Soliano spent his childhood touring Malaya with parents and siblings who were all involved in the bangsawan.
By the mid 1940s, as the popularity of bangsawan began to diminish, Soliano took a keen interest in jazz. In his early twenties, Soliano played in places like the Selangor Club a.k.a. “The Dog”, Griffin’s Inn & The Harlequin. Introducing KL audiences to Be-Bop at the age of 23, Soliano was considered ahead of his time.
From 1949 onwards, Soliano gained a national profile through his live radio broadcasts with his trio at Radio Malaya. The following year, Soliano officially joined Radio Malaya and was put to task to set-up the nation’s very first orchestra. Insisting the ensemble be made up of locals, Soliano trained and nurtured musically illiterate musicians, to form a full fledge orchestra. Some of the members of the orchestra, such as saxophonist Ahmad Nawab, trumpeter Johari Salleh, saxophonist Taib Osman and violinist Hamid Kassim became key players in the music industry.
Widely considered to have been a pivotal figure in the history of jazz in Malaysia, Soliano was also responsible in transforming the landscape of Asli music by transcribing them symphonically. Asli music was heard symphonically for the first time in a landmark concert “Malam Irama Melayu” 1959. During his tenure as conductor/leader of Orkes Radio Malaya (1949-1965), Soliano composed, arranged and recorded hundreds of songs broadcast for programmes on radio and television.
Soliano’s approach in re-arranging Malay folk music to suit contemporary audiences did not sit well with critics. The Malay press deemed Soliano’s music making too western. In 1965, Soliano resigned and moved his family to Bangkok.
In Bangkok (1965-1973), Soliano led a 10 piece band at the American Officers Club, accompanying American celebrities and singers who were passing through. Soliano’s love for jazz thrived. An invitation to perform and participate at the Ruhr Jazz Valley Festival in Recklinghausen, Germany, showcased some of his finest jazz compositions.
Soliano’s contribution to Thai music was acknowledged by the Thai Music Association with two awards, which he received from the King of Thailand in 1971. At the request of good friend Minister Gazali Shafie, in 1973, Soliano moved back to Malaysia.
Soliano returned to Radio TV Malaysia as arranger and senior musician. In 1979, Soliano was awarded arranger and composer of the year by Persatuan Seniman Malaysia @ SENIMAN (Artists Association of Malaysia, an NGO) for the album “Lela Manja”, a monumental Asli album, featuring local greats, singer Sharifah Aini who was also awarded best singer and violinist Hamzah Dolmat who received an honorary award under record label EMI.
Soliano retired from RTM in 1980 after suffering a stroke. He returned to RTM in 1985 on an advisory job until his demise on June 16th 1990. Soliano’s influence continues in the form of jazz inflected Malaysian music, which can be heard in Angkasapuri and Dewan Filharmonik Petronas.
www.facebook.com/pages/Alfonso-Soliano/339380986235000
Programme:
Thursday, 10th September, 2015
Workshop / Master class
11.00am - Ezra Brown
2.00pm - Benito Gonzalez
Concert
8.45pm “Alfonso 25” – A Jazz Tribute to the Music of Alfonso Soliano featuring The Guerzos
Friday, 11th September, 2015
Workshop / Master Class
2.00pm - Frederik Koster
Seats for the workshops are limited. Register here and pay the registration fee RM 15.00. Pn. Azzura Aziz at the Cultural Centre, University Malaya. Phone: +603 79673454 - Email azzura_aziz@um.edu.my
Closing date is 20th August 2015.
Concerts
8.00pm - UM Jazz Ensemble
9.00pm - Frederik Koster Quartet
10.00pm - Ezra Brown
11.00pm - Colour Codes ft Jordan Rivers
Saturday, 12th September, 2015
Concerts
4.00pm - UiTm Jazz Ensemble
5.00pm - Bastian Stein Duo
6.00pm - Benito Gonzalez
8.00pm - Frederik Koster Quartet
8.45pm - Maria Angela Rebona
9.30pm - Lao Tizer Quartet
10.30pm - Eric Wyatt Quartet
11.30pm - Ezra Brown & Barry Likumahuwa
Sunday, 13th September 2015
Concerts
6.00pm - Patrick Terbrack Quartet ft Hiroyuki Yagi
8.00pm - Najwa Mahiaddin
8.45pm - Chieli Minucci & Special EFX
9.45pm - The John Coltrane All Star Band
10.30pm - KL Jazz Project & Helga Violin
11.15pm - Black Codes ft Jamie Wilson & Chris Ong
Ticketing Information:
Ticket Prices:
Ticketing Hotline: +603 78807999
Online Booking: www.ticketpro.com.my/
For More Information:
Phone: +603 56377742 / +603 56371539
Email: charles@klinternationaljazz.com
URL: www.klinternationaljazz.com/
TW: twitter.com/kljazztweets
FB: www.facebook.com/KLInternationalJazzFestival
Artistes Line Up:
Eric Wyatt
Eric Wyatt is a saxophonist born and raised in Brookyln, New York. He was introduced to the sax by his father Charles Wyatt, who played tenor and hung out with many of the great jazz icons: Charlie Parker, Gary Bartz, George Braith, Wilver Ware, Thelonious Monk, Dizzy Gillespie and more.
Eric had the privilege of meeting two great jazz masters, both of whom changed his life: Miles Davis and his godfather, Sonny Rollins. Eric recalls, “When I met Miles, I was 10 years old and was playing trumpet at the time. He was playing at the Bottom Line, a club in New York, and I never forgot all the energy and joy that this man brought to the audience. Sonny was a friend to the family and stayed connected to us after my father passed.”
Sonny Rollins also helped Eric record his first CD for King Records (Japan) titled “God Son” with the great Al Foster on drums, Rufus Reid on bass and pianist Mark Soskin from Sonny’s band.
Eric has been recording and traveling the world as both leader and sideman and continues to build an imppresive, solid resume. He has played with and recorded on records with Jeff Tain Watts, Rovert Glasper, Kenny Garrett, Wynton Marsalis, Roy Hargove, Donald Vega, Branford Marsalis, Bob Cranshow, James Spaulding, Keyon Harrold, E. J. Strickland, Jeremy Pelt, Willie Jones III, Clifton Anderson, Warren Wolf, Monty Alexander, Benito Gonzalez, Larry Willis, Stephen Scott, Justin Robinson and many others.
Eric has performed internationally in Japan, Shanghai, Hong KOng, Lebanon, Athens, Thessolnikki Greece, Nice, and Paris, France. He has recorded four CDs as a leader: “God Son”, King Records (Japan), “Live at the Half Note”, “The Blue Print”, and “Live at the Brooklyn Paramount”. His new CD entitled “From the Borough of Kings” is soon to be released and features Grammy nominated pianist from Kenny Garrett’s group Benito Gonzalez, Roy Hargrove bassist, Ameen Saleem, and drummer Shinnosuke Takahasi from Japan, who plays with legendary pianist Makoto Ozone. The album includes special guests Clifton Anderson, Dwayne Eubanks, and rising star drummer and finalist at the 2012 Thelonious Monk competition, Kyle Poole. This exciting project features many Eric Wyatt original compositions, two standards and a tune by pianist Benito Gonzalez.
www.ericwyatt-music.com
twitter.com/edubsax
www.facebook.com/eric.wyatt.167
Tizer Quartet
Driven by an explosive mix of jazz, rock, classical, jam band influences and Afro Cuban and world rhythms, Downbeat—the first studio album by TIZER, a multi-cultural band led by Boulder, CO native, keyboardist/composer Lao Tizer—throws down a high powered collection of 12 brand-new originals on this scintillating release of fresh instrumental music from one of today’s rising stars of the world-fusion genre. Establishing themselves in the contemporary jazz world over the past few years, TIZER has spurred comparisons of a modern twist to the 70s and early 80s heyday of jazz fusion, when trailblazing ensembles like Return To Forever, Mahavishnu Orchestra and Weather Report set the aesthetic standard.
Truly embodying the title and spirit of his 2007 solo album Diversify, Lao assembled a group of veteran world-class musicians to create a dynamic rich with new melodic, harmonic and improvisational possibilities. Co-produced by Lao and guitarist Jeff Kollman (GlennHughes, UFO, Chad Smith’s Bombastic Meatbats), the eclectic set includes five original compositions by Lao and numerous collaborations with his cohorts, including the first single “World In Rhythm,” co-written with Emmy winner and Grammy nominated guitarist Chieli Minucci, best known as founder and leader of Special EFX.
Over the past few years, TIZER—a 2011 nominee for “Jazz Group of the Year”–has taken their multi-faceted world fusion vibe around the globe, galvanizing thousands at events including the Java Jazz Festival in Jakarta, the Joy of Jazz Festival in Johannesburg, the Dubai Jazz Festival, Barbados Jazz Festival, the Caribbean Sea Jazz Festival and the Festival International Providencia Jazz in Santiago, Chile. In addition to their usual whirlwind of U.S. dates, their 2012 schedule in support of Downbeat includes the Jarasum International Jazz Festival in South Korea and four shows in Russia. While Lao was a “Best New Jazz Artist” nominee in 2002 and Diversify spent many weeks on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz chart, TIZER has a multi-genre, multi-national appeal that expands beyond just jazz enthusiasts. Their diverse resume includes performance slots alongside Zappa Plays Zappa, Jethro Tull, Isaac Hayes, Al Jarreau, Spyro Gyra, George Benson, Soulive, Babyface, Bruce Hornsby and Robin Thicke.
Those who haven’t yet experienced TIZER’s intensity, expansive arrangements and exciting soloing in concert got the next best thing with the group’s 2010 debut release TIZER Live, which captured the vibrant interaction of what Lao calls “the ultimate cultural and musical melting pot”; Italian-American New Yorker Minucci, African American violin great Karen Briggs (Yanni, Stanley Clarke, Chaka Khan) and Cuban born drummer/percussionist Raul Pineda (Michel Camilo, Chucho Valdes), in addition to Kollman, multi-instrumentalist Steve Nieves (Kenny Loggins, Loggins & Messina, Jagno) and Lao himself, who grew up in Boulder, Colorado. Bassist Rufus Philpot, who joined TIZER after that recording, hails from London. The concert recording at the world renowned Musicians Institute in Hollywood was TIZER’s very first live performance as a group; it included fresh interpretations of seven songs from Lao’s earlier recordings, including Diversify and Golden Soul (2001).
Downbeat marks the first time that Lao has co-produced one of his albums. Loving the big sound of the band and all the intricacies it has in the live setting inspired his simple concept when it came time to write and record the album. “Producing and mixing with Jeff, my goal was to give listeners a taste of the energy TIZER creates in the live setting, so most of the recording was done live in the studio,” he says. “While no solo on disc can capture what happens onstage, we wanted Downbeat to have the same blend and balance via strong, detailed arrangements and studio production. It all starts with a completely live rhythm section—drums, bass, percussion, keys—and that translates to an organic foundation to build from.”
www.laotizer.com/
twitter.com/LaoTizer
www.facebook.com/laotizer
Chieli Minucci & Special EFX
Chieli Minucci – guitarist, producer, composer – is the leader of the Grammy-nominated contemporary jazz group SPECIAL EFX, which formed in 1982. Minucci & Special EFX have recorded a combined 25 CD’s, 8 of those being solo releases. In addition Minucci has recorded and performed with top pop artists such as Celine Dion, Lionel Richie, Jennifer Lopez, Jewel, Mark Anthony, Jessica Simpson, Anasta-sia and others..
Jazz artists such as Bobby Caldwell, Chuck Loeb, Paul Jackson Jr., Marion Meadows, Jay Beckenstein/ Spyro Gyra, Kim Waters, Alex Bugnon, Gerald Veasley, Lao Tizer, Nestor Torez, Bob Baldwin, Jeff Lorber and many others. His father, Ulpio Minucci (concert pianist/composer) wrote the now ’standard’ 1955 hit song “Domani,” as well as “A Thousand Thoughts of You,” and “Felicia” (both sung by Nat King Cole). Also known as a composer for television and film, Minucci was nominated for 10 Daytime Emmy Awards and has won three, in 1998, 2007, and most recently in 2008, for his eclectic compositional work on CBS’s The Guiding Light. He has written music for well-known programs such as Good Morning America (theme), Bloomberg Radio (theme), Access Holly-wood, The 700 Club, and others. He also contrib-uted music to the sound-tracks of Bowfinger (1999), Legally Blonde (2001). and Panic (2000), as well as most recently to ‘Lifted’ (2007).
Minucci composed and produced the soundtrack for the Broadway Across America/Nickelodeon live stage productions of the hit TV series, Dora the Explorer (‘Dora’s Pirate Adventure’, ‘The City of Lost Toys’ and currently ‘Return to the City of Lost Toys’) which are currently touring interna-tionally. He also wrote and recorded original songs for the live stage production of Thomas & Friends Live™, (both ‘Thomas Saves The Day!’ and most currently, ‘A Circus Comes to Town’).
chielimusic.com/
twitter.com/ChieliEFX
www.facebook.com/ChieliMinucciandSpecialEFX?ref=br_rs
Ezra Brown
Gospel, blues, jazz, r&b, soul, hip-hop—language of the human experience. Ezra Brown’s music speaks this language. His horn serves as his translator, becoming a voice that speaks in tongues transcending any language barrier. Ezra’s sound — a culmination of southern comfort and urban grit, gives birth to a style that is new, yet familiar. This sound speaks from the soul. A sound Ezra calls Soul Muzik. When he picks up his horn, sound is transformed into a language that enters the soul producing an experience that is pure music. An experience that goes beyond sound becoming something that is felt. Music that translates the human experience for all to understand.
Ezra Brown uses his musical style to transform a mere story to a lyrical moment. This style makes him a much sought after force among his contemporaries. As saxophonist, keyboardist, music director, and arranger, he has collaborated with a broad spectrum of industry greats. He has worked with an impressive list of Grammy Award winning artists such as Cassandra Wilson, John Forte, and Charlie Daniels, BB King, Bobby “Blue” Bland. His works also includes Grammy nominated artists – Jennifer Hudson, Les Nubians, Calvin Richardson, Gordon Chambers and Latin artist, CuCu Diamantes. Ezra and his horn has also graced the world stage at several international music festival including: recently the 2013 KL International Jazz Festival – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, JazzAcona Festival – Acona, Switzerland; Black World Arts Festival – Dakar, Senegal; and Trans Musicales de Rennes Music Festival – Rennes, France, North Sea Jazz Festival – Rotterdam, Netherlands, 2013 South Carolina Jazz Festival, Solidays – Paris, France, and many more.
Constantly fine-tuning his artistic expression, Ezra is currently involved in several projects.While he is touring the world, he makes time to do many global workshops/ masterclass with kids and students about the music he plays SoulMuzik (a mix of R&B/ Jazz/ Blues/ Gospel) He also serves as a member of Andy Allo’s band (Prince’s Protige), Blitz the Ambassador; and as a band member for Cheryl Pepsii Riley at The Village Underground in New York City, the top R & B open mic night in the country. You can hear Ezra on MTVu’s Live Sessions, where he is featured with Blitz the Ambassador and John Forte “Breathe” video on MTVu; ESPN World Cup 2010 playlist Blitz the Ambassador’s “Something to Believe In”; and clothing label LRG presents The Kid Daytona “Lifted” w/ hip hop artist Styles P.
Ezra and his horn has something to say. The vehicle in which he chooses to convey this message is in the form of his Debut album ‘The Journey’, which was released July 2013. He is currently touring promoting the album with scheduled performances at Nicaragua International Jazz Festival 2014 and KL International Jazz Festival (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia).
www.ezrabrown.com
twitter.com/eZrabrown
www.facebook.com/eZrabrown?ref=br_rs
Benito Gonzalez
Born into a family of Venezuelan folk musicians, jazz pianist Benito Gonzalez has always had a deep-rooted appreciation for pastimes and traditions. Today, as a rising star of one of America’s finest musical traditions, Gonzalez has come to his current status by following in the footsteps of jazz’s ancestral forebears. The fusion of world rhythms and straight-ahead jazz makes this passionate performer an audience favorite all over the world.
Gonzalez has a golden touch on the piano, whether he’s playing a ballad or swinging for the fences.
– The JazzPage
Benito Gonzalez is being recognized as an exciting pianist and composer for his well-received debut album ‘Starting Point’ (Christian McBride, Antonio Sanchez, Rene McLean, Ron Blake) in addition to taking home first prize at the Great American Jazz Piano Competition.
Benito’s acclaimed sophomore album, ‘Circles’ (Ron Blake, Myron Walden, Azar Lawrence, Christian McBride, Jeff “Tain” Watts), reveals a very personal body of work as he emerges as a leader and an accomplished improviser. Recently, Benito received more critical attention for his work on Garrett’s Grammy-Nominated album ‘Seeds from the Underground’.
Gonzalez proves he can handle just about anything thrown his musical way.
– KeyboardMag
After almost seven years of touring with Kenny Garrett, Benito has added numerous festivals and international jazz club dates to his credit. He has also shared the stage with Curtis Fuller, Pharaoh Sanders, Bobby Hutcherson, Christian McBride, Ignacio Berroa, Roy Hargrove, Rene McLean, Steve Turre,Delfeayo Marsalis,Hamiet Bluiett, Antonio Sanchez, T.K. Blue, Nicholas Payton, Azar Lawrence, and Jackie McLean.
Gonzalez flashes killer chops and swings intensely alongside his world-class bandmates.
– Blues & Soul
His multi-cultural talents have led to frequent recording dates, from American jazz masters such as Kenny Garrett and Azar Lawrence, to West African musicians and Latin bands. Benito has also served as musical director for several Venezuelan Recording Artists.
Presently, Benito is touring the world with numerous jazz clubs an international festivals to his credit, including several extensive tours of Europe as leader of his own Benito Gonzalez Trio.
…Benito Gonzalez. Remember that name. A future star.
– Blues & Soul
www.benitogonzalez.com/
twitter.com/pianobg
www.facebook.com/benitopiano
Frederik Köster Quartet
Frederik Köster is a German jazz trumpeter, – Composer and – Arranger. According to Die Welt, Germany has with him a new trumpet star Koster grew up in his hometown in the Sauerland, the son of music teacher Friedel Koster. He studied music education in Detmold at Max Sommerhalder and then jazz trumpet and jazz composition and -Arrangement at the Cologne Music Academy. In the National Youth Jazz Orchestra, he was from 2001 to 2005 as a soloist, composer and arranger under the direction of Peter Herbolzheimer active. Since 2007 he teaches at the Institute of Music of the University of Osnabrück as professor of jazz trumpet (he has since 2010 teaches at the Hochschule für Musik und Theater Hannover).
In addition to teaching, he has worked in various projects. He played the trumpet with Albert Mangelsdorff, Randy Brecker, Ack van Rooyen and Lalo Schifrin, and Nina Hagen, the Sportfreunde Stiller and Jazzkantine. He also collaborated with Johannes Enders,Florian Weber, Simon Nabatov, Nils Wogram, Michael Wollny, Nils Landgren, Jane Monheit, Nils Petter Molvær, the WDR Big Band, the hr-Bigband and the Peter Herbolzheimer Rhythm Combination & Brass. As a composer and arranger, he wrote for the Cologne Contemporary Jazz Orchestra, Tom Gaebel, the Wednesday Night Big Band, the Youth Jazz Orchestra NRW and the Grand Central Orchestra. He undertook with bands concert tours to other European countries and to South Africa and Namibia. With his quartet Köster played at renowned jazz festivals such as Jazz Baltica, Moers Festival, Euro Jazz Festival in Mexico City or the North Sea Jazz Festival and toured at the invitation of the Goethe Institute by Mexico, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Honduras, Portugal and India. In recent years, his sound has changed; He now sounds like a “German jazz combo with American Jazz Appeal”. Köster plays, since June 2013 the band by Trilok Gurtu, with whom he was on an international tour.
In September 2006 he was awarded the prize for best soloist at the Jazz Hoeilaart International Contest in Belgium. Together with his Frederik Quartet In 2009 he received the 10,000 Euro New German Jazz Award, and in parallel also the prize for best soloist. 2010 his album was “signs of the times” with the Echo Jazz Award in the category Instrumentalist of the Year national (Brass / Brass). Also in 2010 he received the 10,000 euros WDR Jazz Award in the category “improvisation”. In 2013 Westfalen-Jazz Prize he was awarded, since it him “succeed … masterfully to unite with very individual sound on his instrument, compositional imagination and unbridled joy in improvisation diversity and clarity in his music.”
www.frederikkoester.de/
www.facebook.com/frederikkoster
Bastian Stein
Bastian Stein was born in Heidelberg (Germany). With 10 years he was studying classical trumpet as an exeptional student at the University of music and acting in Vienna! In that time he was playing in several youth orchestras and on some classical competitions (1st Price at “Prima la Musica”).With 19 years he moved to Amsterdam to start his Jazz studies at the Jazz conservatory in Amsterdam with teacher Ack van Rooyen, Ruud Breuls, John Rocco, Jan Oosthof and Jarmo Hoogendijk. In 2003, he became a member of the German Jazz Orchestra (Bujazzo), under the leading of Peter Herbolzheimer. 2005 he received the Hans Koller Price (New York Scholarship). In 2009, he released his Debut CD “Grounded” (Double Moon Records). In 2011, he was selected for the NASOM-Program (Next Austrian Sound Of Music), which supports Austrian musicians on concerts in abroad. In 2013 he released his second CD “Diegesis” (PIROUET Records) with his German Quartet.
By the end of 2015 he will release his 3rd Solo Album! since 2014, Stein has been a trumpet teacher at the University in Stuttgart. Next to his own Projects Bastian Stein Group, Bastian Stein’s Gravity Point and Bastian Stein/Jure Pukl CROSSfRONT, he has played with many different groups like: Rheinische Philharmonie, WDR Big Band, Joris Dudli Sextet, Rob Bargad Band, Flip.
Philipp & Ed Partyka Octet, Christoph Stiefel Isorhythm Orchestra, Andy Middleton Octet, Fritz Pauer Quintet, Vienna Jazz Orchestra (under the leading of Ed Partyka), German Jazz Orchester (under the leading of Peter Herbholzheimer), Sternal Symphonic Society, Ed Partyka Jazz Orchestra, Nouvelle Cuisine, Martin Reiter Octet, Nu Random, SK Invitational, Schwarzmarkt, Robert Bachner Big Band, Vienna Jazz Composers, Bernd Reiter Quartet, Markus Geiselhart Orchester, Jaqueline Patricio Band, Karl Sayer Quintet, Iris Camaa & Band, Karl Seyer Quintet, f*gner Wesely Quartet and many more.
www.bastianstein.com/
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Najwa Mahiaddin
A multiple award winning singer-songwriter, New York based Najwa is returning from her three year hiatus with a darker undertone in her music, experimenting with somber and minimalistic echoes over the usual warm piano accompaniments. Thus the Aurora EP is born- her sound is shamelessly stripped down into a bare electronic setting, her soul’s deepest shadows unveiled.
Perhaps it was the winters of Boston, having spent the last three years there pursuing her music degree at Berklee College of Music. Switching her playlist from Jill Scott, Erykah Badu and Billie Holiday to the likes of Little Dragon, James Blake and Evy Jane while braving the isolated icy paths far away from home may have had a little something to do with it.
A drastic departure from her debut R&B/neo-soul album Innocent Soul released way back in 2011, Aurora seeks to reaffirm her Malaysian roots by blending traditional elements from her Arabic and Indian influenced heritage with a more current soundtrack.
Najwa’s first single from Aurora, Seri Mersing, boldly weaves the ancestral ghazal folk song into a contemporary orchestration, intimating a cultural fusion of the old and new.
Born in Malaysia, ‘Najwa’ otherwise known as Najwa Mahiaddin first discovered music at the tender age of 3, fascinated by seeing her sister playing the piano and soon thereafter, began taking piano and vocal lessons herself.
What began as entertainment at family events quickly evolved into a powerful means of self-expression when she discovered the craft of songwriting. Creating her own music allowed her to channel her energy into something creative and new.
Najwa was encouraged to study engineering in Melbourne. During that time, she developed a strong following on social media through songwriting and regular performances at local venues. One of her social media followers was Malique of Too Phat, a Malaysian hip hop duo. Malique approached her and asked her to be a featured vocalist on Kau Yang Punya, the first single from his upcoming album. The single became a radio hit and put Najwa on the map of Malaysia’s music scene. Soon thereafter, Najwa was featured on another single released by Malique, Senyum. Najwa’s commercial success with Malique convinced Najwa to pursue a music career full-time. She soon enrolled at the Berklee Transfer Program in Malaysia, where she formed her first band and honed her skills as an arranger, composer and performer.
Soon, she was performing at some of the most well-known venues and events in Malaysia, including the MoonShine series, Mia Palencia’s Bedroom Musician Series, and Sunburst Music Festival. She later had the opportunity to co-headline a performance with Yuna at the prestigious Malam Nada Biru, as well as open for Babyface, Ne-Yo and Michael Bublé.
In 2011 she released her debut album, Innocent Soul, for which she was awarded Best New Artiste at the AIM as well as Best Local English Song for her single, Got to Go. During this time, Najwa was also nominated for awards at the Shout! Awards, one of the most popular award shows in Malaysia.
Got to Go, the single received positive reviews and huge airplay on Malaysian radios and in 2012 she headlined a solo concert at the reknowned Dewan Filharmonik Petronas.
Najwa then moved to New York in 2013 after graduating from Berklee College of Music, and has been collaborating and performing with Mostacho Experiment, with whom she toured Costa Rica, Nicaragua and the United States.
Her next EP, Aurora was released last year. The first single, Seri Mersing, has already been enthusiastically received by the press and garnered great reviews.
Aurora will mark a new milestone in Najwa’s career, who has already risen to the top of the music industry in Malaysia, where she has risen to celebrity status and earned some of the industry’s top awards and nominations.
www.najwamusic.com/
twitter.com/najwamahiaddin
www.facebook.com/najwamusic
Simon Seidl
Having moved to Cologne in 2008, pianist Simon Seidl studied jazz-piano under Hubert Nuss at the Cologne Musik and Dance Conservatorium (HFM Köln). At the age of ten, he began with classical piano lessons and in 2007 Simon was awarded the Ingoldstädter Jazz-sponsorship prize. Soon thereafter, until 2008, he began studies at the Conservatorium in Munich as a junior student. Between 2004 and 2007, Simon was a recipient of various awards with ‘Jugend Jazzt’ and was also accepted into the State Youth Jazz Orchestra of Bavaria. Alongside his own Trio including Robert Landfermann and Fabian Arends, Simon is active as a sideman in numerous ensembles across Germany.
Lessons/workshops with: Hubert Nuss, Simon Nabatov, Florian Ross, Hendrik Soll, John Taylor, Henning Berg, Achim Kaufmann, Phil Markowitz, Paulo Cardoso, Frank Wunsch, Dieter Manderscheid, Dietmar Fuhr, Wolfgang Engstfeld, Frank Gratkowski …
Festivals:
Acht Brücken Köln, Ingolstädter Jazztage, Jazzfest München, Trencin Jazzfestival, Jazztrain Hamburg …
Concerts:
Italy, Romania, Slovakia, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Kanada, Kosovo, France Hungary
Ongoing projects:
Simon Seidl Trio: Fabian Arends (dr), Robert Landfermann (b), Simon Seidl (p) Christoph Möckel Quintett: Christoph Möckel (ts), Menzel Mutzke (tp), Matthias Nowak (b), Fabian Arends (dr), Simon Seidl (p) Bloom: Menzel Mutzke (tp), Volker Heinze (b), Fabian Arends (dr), Simon Seidl (p) Maxime Bender Quartett: Maxime Bender (ts), Oliver Lutz (b), Silvio Morger (dr), Simon Seidl (p) Jakob Kühnemann´s Keenman: Jakob Kühnemann (b), Malte Dürrschnabel (as), Silvio Morger (dr), Simon Seidl (p)
Trumann Doktrin: Janning Trumann (trb), Reza Askari (b), Fabian Arends (dr), Simon Seidl Hendrika Entzian Quartett: Hendrika Entzian (b), Maximilian Jagow (b), Fabian Arends(dr), Simon Seidl (p) Sebastian Degen Quintett: Sebastian Degen (ts), Tim Hepburn (trb), Thomas Sauerborn (dr),Hendrika Entzian (b), Simon Seidl (p) Anne-Christine Heinrich Quartett: Anne-Christine Heinrich (fl), Jakob Kühnemann(b),Silvio Morger (dr), Simon Seidl (p) Paulo Cardoso/Simon Seidl Duo: Paulo Cardoso (b), Simon Seidl (p) Maximilian Jagow Quintett: Maximilian Jagow (ts), Riaz Khabirpour (git), Oliver Lutz (b),Oliver Rehmann (dr), Simon Seidl (p)
Jordan Rivers
Jordan Rivers is a self taught guitarist and singer. He is known as Malaysia’s George Benson. Starting very young since 1978, Jordan has performed with some of the top acts such as Asia Beat, Hunters,Fredo and the Flint Stones, Boy Kantindig, Free Flight, The Tentera Udara Orchestra, Abe Laborieln Randy Crawford, Dave Coz, Sheila Majid, Ezra Brown, Jessy J, Michael Veerapan, Arumugam goes to Alabama, and David Gomez. He has also been performing in the KL Jazz Project. Jordan has also played the Bali Jazz Festival, Mount Kiara Jazz Festival and the KL International Jazz Festival. He is also a lecturer at UCSI in Contemporary Guitar studies.
www.facebook.com/jordan.rivers.5811
Helga Violin
Hungarian violinist and singer Helga Sedli started studying music at the age of 8 and graduated as a musician from the Bela Bartok Conservatory in Budapest. She has a second degree as a mathematics and music teacher. During her travels around Europe, she joined many music conterts with violin and vocals.
She uses two violins; a classical one by hungarian master Zoltan Langer and an electric Yamaha SV-550 series violin. She equally enjoys playing on both of them.
After her European trip, she was contracted by the Hotel Mulia Senayan in Jakarta. Then in 2010, moving to Bali enabled her to join several bands and try different music styles. She started to play the electric violin besides the acoustic one, and also to play jazz, and collaborate with DJs.
By playing jazz, she really immerged herself in the art of improvisation. She teamed up with Dutch international DJ Rob Soundz and started performing in nightclubs around Indonesia. With the well–established Indonesian band Saharadja she performed at the Kuala Lumpur music festival in 2012.
At around the same time, she created her own world music band called Helga Fusion, acting as a leader, composer, arranger, lead singer and solo instrument violin player. Her European folk and classic background are represented in the band‘s repertoire. They are currently recording their first album.
Another project she initiated is the creation of a new jazz band using the electric violin, which is not a common instrument on the jazz scene. In this project, her part is to be a jazz violinist and singer. One of the recent highlights has been a concert in the Blue Jazz Club and Sultan Jazz club in Singapore.
Firmly based and established in Bali, Helga is a popular act at wedding events, either as a solo act or part of a string quartet. Also, she joins Ayu Laksmi and the Balawan band to play traditional Balinese music at events.
For the near future, Helga‘s aim is to share her passion with more people at more places. Enquiries to perform at several festivals in the South–East Asian area have been received, and her broad talent and interest will continue to ensure a busy performance schedule.
www.facebook.com/violinhelga
Hiroyuki Yagi
Since he started tenor saxophone in his elementary school band, he has been playing the instrument for more than 40 years. Even after he joined one of the biggest Japanese MNCs some thirty years ago (and still working for the company), he continues playing on and off in Japan, Germany, US and then Malaysia.
With his rich and deep horn sound and mainstream style inspired by Jazz Tenor Legends like John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins, Steve Grossman or Wayne Shorter, he has been loved by many musicians in Japan, such as Toshiki Nunokawa, Koichi Yabori, Kozo Suganuma, Masatoshi Mizuno and Kazuo Isatsu. He is featured in 5 CDs available in market, including leader album of world well-known drummer Kozo Suganuma, with Lincoln Goins on bass, Scott Kinsey on Keyboards, and Koichi Yabori on Guitar which is recorded in New York City in 2001.
He has been around KL, where he has established musical network on and off the scene, for his assignment as the MNC expat since 2012. Currently he is voluntary playing with many local players, such as Mike Verrapen, Steve Nanda, Daniel Fong, Julian Chan, Xiong, and Patrick Terbrack. He is also organizing monthly gig with his regular group with which he plays straight ahead instrumental jazz with other Japanese Jazz musician Based in KL.
Christy Smith
Bassist Christy Smith is a Professional Musician, Composer, Arranger, Teacher. Graduated with Bachelor of Music Degree from California University Fullerton, USA. Currently based in Singapore.
EXPERIENCE
Idiewild School of Music & The Arts, Compton High School Marching Band, Dance Band & Orchestra Louis Thomas / Director; 1972-1977: Communicative Artist: Big Band under Troy Robinson, Henry Grant’s Big Band, Battle of Bands Production Band Hollywood Bowl, Live Recording – Custom Fidelity Records: 1973 Bob McDonald / Director, Pat Williams /Guest Conductor, 1974 Bob McDonald / Director, Mercer Ellington / Guest Conductor; 1977: Performed at FESTAC, The 2nd Annual Black & African Festival of Arts & Culture in Lagos, Nigeria with “The Creative Musicians” Troy Robinson of The Watts Towers, L.A, California / Conductor, John Outterbridge/Director, Highlight Performance with Stevie Wonder, Fela and the African 70’; 1978: Toured Europe with C.S.U. Fullerton Symphony Orchestra, Keith Clark / Conductor, Performed at The Musique Vierine, Vienna; Estahazy Palace, Eisenstadt: Gratz & Salzburg, Austria; Lake on Rigi, Lucerne; Montreux & Geneva, Switzerland; London & Liverpool, England; Performing works were “The Firebird Suite”/ Igor Stravinsky “Three Places in New England” by Charles Ives, “Candide Overture” by Leonard Bernstein & Dvorak’s “9th’ New World Symphony”
1980 – 1982: Member of the Pacific Symphony Orchestra, Keith Clark / Conductor, Performing concerts with artists such as Anna Moffo, Sarah Vaughn, Jerome Rose & Leonard Pennario, also Carmen Dragon as Guest Conductor. Performed with the University Symphony Orchestra Aaron Copeland / Conductor. Performed works were “Appalachian Sprint” & “Billy The Kid Suite” by Aaron Copeland. Performed in the Combo & Big Band on the “Tropicale”. Carnival Cruise Lines. 1982 -1992: Helped form band called Phuntaine with Eddie” Gip” Noble,Gerald Pania, Joshua Sclaire working ail over Southern California. Member of Ray & The Idols / Ramone & The LA Band. Formed Power Trio Band & freelanced until arrival in Singapore.
SINGAPORE ENGAGEMENTS 1993 to Current: Performed with Charly & The Eddie Green Trio at the Somerset’s Bar, Westin Hotel. ,: M.C. and In-House Bassist with Chromazone for HARRY;S INTERNATIONAL, performing with artists including Wynton Marsialles, Ernie Watts, Eric Marienthal, Spiro Gym Teramasu Hino, Paul Jackson Jr. Eric McCain Jeremy Monteiro and many more. Actively involved in many projects including Recording Sessions, Television, National Arts Council events, International Festivals, School and Higher Education Programs. Currently teaching Double Bass at Bass Guitar at the National University of Singapore , United World South East Asia and Lasalle College of the Arts. Performing and Harry’s International Quayside 6nights a week. 2010:Jeremy Monteiro &friends with Chinese Orchestra, J.M. & friends perform in Beijing celebrating 20 years of Singapore and China Relations September,2010
RECORDINGS, MOVIES, TELEVISION. COMMERCIALS & OTHER PROJECTS
1974: “At The Storefront”, a PBS weekly program hosted by Paul Winfield on Channel 28, performed as of the Communicative Artists. “Focus”, a program on Channel 4, highlighting the Communicative Artists, Academy of Compton 1978:California State University Fullerton Symphony Orchestra records including Beethoven’s “9th Symphony”, Live at The Little Theatre.
1984: “Buffalo Bill Show” Prime time television program, starring Dabney Coleman featuring Esther Phillips.
1985: “Jojo Dancer Your Life Is Calling”, a motion picture starring Richard Pryor .:CD Michael Veerapen entitled “Pictures” on Scat Records. CD with Mark Chan entitled “Nature Boy”, released in Japan by Sound Asia, Producer Norihiko Yamanuki.
1998 RELEASE of my cd the ”Time Is Now Sessions“ featuring Keith Loftis. Recorded in Singapore. Many commercial recordings with Songzu. Local and international artist. Always involved with international festivals in Singapore MOZAIC the most rescent march 2007
www.christysmithmusic.com/
www.facebook.com/pages/Christy-Smith/623103047715773
Chris Ong
Chris Ong began as an aspiring guitar player amidst the demands of a modernizing Singaporean society. After successive strokes of serendipity, he sailed into the music scene with his crafty blues-rock solos and intricate speed riffs. He rose to prominence in the 1980s as the lead guitarist of progressive rock band Heritage. Interest in the Singaporean group swiftly escalated, eventually prompting local record labels to work with them. With an initiation the band released a ten-track album titled ‘Boy Becomes Man’, landing them as the opening act for Bob Dylan at his concert in Singapore. During his career with Heritage, Chris Ong toured throughout Southeast Asia influencing and simultaneously inspiring fellow musicians to accomplish their musical endeavors. After leaving to recollect his roots in blues-rock, he joined the New Vintage Band which self-produced two live albums that featured cover songs performed at underground clubs.
Chris Ong is known for his calm and composed persona juxtaposed with his signature vibrato squeal and stands among local musicians as a living legend. Remaining as the elusive ‘guitarist for hire’, he performed on stage at Singapore’s Esplanade Theatre with old friend Ernie Koh (Pest Infested) for a reunion concert in 2008, making it his latest public appearance to date.
Jamie Wilson
Born in Australia Jamie studied classical guitar as a child and made his first formal appearance at the age of 16 at the Sydney Opera House. By the time he was 18 he had won the MTV Australian National Guitar challenge earning himself the title ‘Australia’s Best Young Guitarist‘. He was invited to attend the prestigious G.I.T. Musicians Institute in Hollywood, California where he attended seminars and workshops giving live performances to enthralled audiences. He was awarded an honorary diploma and went on to play at the famous ‘China Club’ with music legends, Joe Walsh ( The Eagles), Jeff Baxter (Steely Dan and Doobie Brothers), Tim Bogart (Jeff Beck Group) and Clarence Clemens (Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band).
Returning to Australia he was offered the ‘top job’ in the guitar world and joined rock legend Jimmy Barnes on his national tour. There followed tours and performances with Australia’s music royalty, guitar maestro Tommy Emmanuel, Ian Moss, Richard Clapton and many others culminating in sharing the stage with American legend and Grammy winner Steve Miller. Jamie soon embarked on a solo career and although playing was his passion he also found time to teach and educate students in both classical and contemporary guitar. Endorsed by the Fender Guitar Company Jamie continued to grow and wrote some of his early compositions.
Focused mainly on ‘the blues’ his band acquired a considerable following and the respect of his peers. Like most young Australians the time came to pack his guitar and go overseas! He headed for London and spent two years there touring Europe and the UK playing some of the worlds most prestigious venues ……… Wembley Arena, The Royal Albert Hall and the legendary Ronnie Scott’s club.
1999 found Jamie enjoying life in Malaysia, initially on holiday but eventually making Kuala Lumpur his home. He has become one of the region’s top session guitarists playing, composing, arranging and producing literally hundreds of albums as well as touring and performing in USA, England, Australia, Canada, Switzerland, Japan, Taiwan, China, Indonesia, Brunei, Singapore and Malaysia.
He is well known for his multi faceted ability enabling him to work in many styles including performances with the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra and the Hong Kong Philharmonic! He tours and performs with some of Asia’s biggest stars including ‘Hong Kong Heavenly King’ Jacky Cheung, A-Mei, David Tao, Richy Ren, Eason Chen, Wong Lee Hom, Harlem Yu, Sky Wu, Fann Wong, Karen Mok, Elva, Leslie Cheung, Siti Nurhaliza, M.Nasir, Sheila Majid, Adflin Shauki, Anuar Zain, Dayang Nurfaezah, Ferhad, Ziana Zain , Ning Baizura, Jason Lo, Amir Yussof, Innuendo, Poetic Ammo, Ella, Ruhil Amani, Reshmonu, Shanghai Symphony Orchestra, Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra and many more artists. With sitar maestro Samuel J Dass Jamie was co-founder, producer, guitarist and composer of Malaysian fusion ensemble Prana which took the local music scene by storm with their innovative melodies and the fusion of musical elements from eastern and western music.
This new direction gave Jamie the opportunity to work within other ethnic based genres and he was soon playing a leading role in ‘Inner Space Performing Arts’ in their debut production ‘Inside Out’ which went on to win a whopping 8 awards at the BOH Cameronian Arts 2005 including Best Group Performance and Best Music production. In 2006 Jamie performed, with Prana, at the Gala dinner for the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in Singapore and in 2007 he was asked to accompany some of Malaysia’s top singers at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. Jamie’s many talents in the music arena have led him to be recognised not only as a session musician but also as a dynamic live performer and as such he was invited onboard as lead guitar for Siti Nurhaliza’s London concert at The Royal Albert Hall.
This show represented Malaysia’s ‘cutting edge’ in popular music and Jamie was honoured to be involved. Again demonstrating his passion for the Malaysian music industry Jamie was invited to compose and produce the signature tune for the Malaysian Ministry of Youth and Sport advertising campaign. ’Satu Suara’ featured some of Malaysia’s top artists and again demonstrated Jamie’s versatility. Jamie continues to make waves wherever he performs and his in depth understanding of the many genres of music both eastern and western makes him a highly adaptable and versatile musician. His prowess in composition is also highly recognised and has won critical acclaim. He is now producer, composer and guitarist with AkashA.
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Ronny Williams
www.rwdrums.com
www.facebook.com/ronnie.williams.96995?fref=ts
Eddie Layman
With over four decades of experience behind him, Eddie has established himself as a strong and diverse rhythm section player. Between New York, Los Angeles and Asia, he has been the driving force behind a wide array of artists such as Dave Liebman, David Sanborn, Lou Donaldson, Richard ‘Groove’ Holmes, Ray & Tom Kennedy and Roy Eldridge. Along with 27 Recordings under his belt, Eddie is definitely a force to be reckoned with!
eddielayman.com/
www.facebook.com/eddie.layman.5
Tinho Pereira
Brazillian multi-instrumentalist TINHO PEREIRA has the versatility and creativity of a virtuoso (guitarist, bassist, vocalist, producer). He works with musicians from all over the world, playing Latin jazz as well as various other styles and genres.
Tinho was born in a city near São Paulo called Araraquara, and started to play acoustic guitar when he was 6 years old, and classical studies at the age of 7 in the Villa Lobos Conservatory of Music. At the age of 12 he started playing electric bass, traveling around Brazil and South America performing all kinds of music in bars, night clubs, and ballrooms. Tinho graduated with a degree in classical guitar from the Conservatory Villa Lobos in Araraquara City, then went on to study electric bass at Conservatory Dr. Carlos de Campos in Tatuí City, and also studied classical guitar at the ULM in São Paulo, and further contentration in classical guitar, electric bass, arrangement and harmony with masters Walter Falcoski, Henrique Pinto, Ana Maria Bedaque, and Mario Campos.
Tinho has worked in many recording studios and played dozens of music clubs with different artists and bands around Brazil. In 2000 he played at the Fisiarmonic Festival in Reggio Emilia City, Italy, with the Mestre Oswaldinho do Acordeon. Tinho has based himself in Shanghai since 2005, playing at the JZ Shanghai International Jazz Festival with the Shanghai Latin Project, at the Hangzhou Jazz Festival with the Universal Quartet and at the Hong Kong International Jazz Festival with João Mascarenhas Trio. He also joined the Shanghai Big Band as a bassist, playing live concerts for national TV. Tinho now records and produces for studios in Shanghai, performs freelance, and has regular gigs with groups such as Alec Haavik’s Friction Five, the Superloukos Trio, the Universal Quartet, and with his own Tinho Pereira Trio. He also gives bass and guitar classes.
On Jan 24, 2011 Tinho released his 1st instrumental album, entitled ‘Hand Made’, on indie label Three Chord Truth. The entire contents of the album he composed, arranged, and produced featuring over 20 guest musicians from all over the globe.
www.facebook.com/tinhopereira
Maria Angela Rebano
Maria Angela has been singing since the age of 17 and her wide range of styles include Jazz, Blues, Rhythm and Blues, Latin, & Gospel.
She has performed with internationally renowned artists – Ernie Watts (USA), Randy Crawford (USA), Randy Bernsen, (USA), Michael Paulo (USA), , Don Alias (USA), Terumasa Hino (Japan/USA), Eugene Pao (Hong Kong), Broery Marantika (Indonesia), Ireng Maulana Indonesia), Idang Rashidi (Indonesia), Bubi Chen (Indonesia), Barry Likumahuwa (Indonesia) ,Willy Rebaño (Phils), Boy Katindig (Phils) Michael Veerapen, Paul Ponnudorai, David Gomes, Aubrey Suwito, Mac Chew. Jose Thomas, Lewis Pragasam and many others from the region. Recognized as one of the leading jazz divas in South East Asia, Maria continues to enthrall her audience at numerous shows, jazz festivals and private functions.
www.facebook.com/mariaangela.rebano?fref=nf
Barry Likumahuwa
www.facebook.com/pages/Barry-Likumahuwa/71511840371
UiTM Jazz Ensemble
Patrick Terbrack Quartet
Noted for his hard swinging style and deeply soulful and expressive sound, jazz saxophonist Patrick Terbrack is beginning to make his mark in the international jazz scene. Having already performed with seasoned veterans and jazz legends Willie Pickens, Rodney Whitaker, Benny Golson, Jimmy Heath, Michael Veerapan, Steve Thornton, as well as numerous performances with the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra Patrick is continuing a varied music journey as a both a leader and accomplished side-man.
An equally gifted saxophonist and composer Patrick is the recipient of numerous awards including Outstanding Musician of the Elmhurst jazz Festival and the 2008 Signature Songwriters Competition where his original composition 6 Here 12 won best Jazz Composition. Patrick has performed with Benny Golson, Curtis Fuller, Jimmy Heath, Jimmy Cobb, Rodney Whitaker, Lou Solof, John Faddis, Wycliffe Gordon, John Hendricks, Marcus Belgrave, Eric Reed, The Gerald Wilson Big Band, and The Melton Mustafa Big Band. He has performed at the JVC Jazz Festival, The Lima Peru Jazz Festival, The Detroit Jazz Festival, The Lansing Jazz Festival, The Jazz Showcase in Chicago, Dizzy’s Coca-Cola Room in NY and is constantly performing with the best jazz musicians in Kuala Lumpur such as Michael Veerappan and Steve Thornton as well as his own band The Patrick Terbrack Quartet. Patrick has toured extensively in the U.S.A, Peru and Colombia, South America.
Patrick Terbrack is currently a Lecturer in Music at Universiti Teknologi MARA and Director of the Kuala Lumpur Youth Jazz Orchestra. His first album “Invitation” was released in 2010 and is available on iTunes and Amazon.com. Patrick’s second album is currently in post-production and is scheduled to be released in late 2012.
www.patrickterbrack.com/
twitter.com/PatrickTerbrack
www.facebook.com/pages/Patrick-Terbrack/134533914578?ref=br_rs
The John Coltrane All Star Band
UM Jazz Ensemble
“Alfonso 25” – A Jazz Tribute to the Music of Alfonso Soliano ft The Guerzos
Born February 25th 1925 – June 16th 1990 was a Malaysian jazz pianist, conductor, composer and arranger of Orkes Radio Malaya. At the tender age of 7, Soliano worked as a professional pianist for the Grand Jubilee Bangsawan troupe. In the 1930s, Soliano spent his childhood touring Malaya with parents and siblings who were all involved in the bangsawan.
By the mid 1940s, as the popularity of bangsawan began to diminish, Soliano took a keen interest in jazz. In his early twenties, Soliano played in places like the Selangor Club a.k.a. “The Dog”, Griffin’s Inn & The Harlequin. Introducing KL audiences to Be-Bop at the age of 23, Soliano was considered ahead of his time.
From 1949 onwards, Soliano gained a national profile through his live radio broadcasts with his trio at Radio Malaya. The following year, Soliano officially joined Radio Malaya and was put to task to set-up the nation’s very first orchestra. Insisting the ensemble be made up of locals, Soliano trained and nurtured musically illiterate musicians, to form a full fledge orchestra. Some of the members of the orchestra, such as saxophonist Ahmad Nawab, trumpeter Johari Salleh, saxophonist Taib Osman and violinist Hamid Kassim became key players in the music industry.
Widely considered to have been a pivotal figure in the history of jazz in Malaysia, Soliano was also responsible in transforming the landscape of Asli music by transcribing them symphonically. Asli music was heard symphonically for the first time in a landmark concert “Malam Irama Melayu” 1959. During his tenure as conductor/leader of Orkes Radio Malaya (1949-1965), Soliano composed, arranged and recorded hundreds of songs broadcast for programmes on radio and television.
Soliano’s approach in re-arranging Malay folk music to suit contemporary audiences did not sit well with critics. The Malay press deemed Soliano’s music making too western. In 1965, Soliano resigned and moved his family to Bangkok.
In Bangkok (1965-1973), Soliano led a 10 piece band at the American Officers Club, accompanying American celebrities and singers who were passing through. Soliano’s love for jazz thrived. An invitation to perform and participate at the Ruhr Jazz Valley Festival in Recklinghausen, Germany, showcased some of his finest jazz compositions.
Soliano’s contribution to Thai music was acknowledged by the Thai Music Association with two awards, which he received from the King of Thailand in 1971. At the request of good friend Minister Gazali Shafie, in 1973, Soliano moved back to Malaysia.
Soliano returned to Radio TV Malaysia as arranger and senior musician. In 1979, Soliano was awarded arranger and composer of the year by Persatuan Seniman Malaysia @ SENIMAN (Artists Association of Malaysia, an NGO) for the album “Lela Manja”, a monumental Asli album, featuring local greats, singer Sharifah Aini who was also awarded best singer and violinist Hamzah Dolmat who received an honorary award under record label EMI.
Soliano retired from RTM in 1980 after suffering a stroke. He returned to RTM in 1985 on an advisory job until his demise on June 16th 1990. Soliano’s influence continues in the form of jazz inflected Malaysian music, which can be heard in Angkasapuri and Dewan Filharmonik Petronas.
www.facebook.com/pages/Alfonso-Soliano/339380986235000
Programme:
Thursday, 10th September, 2015
Workshop / Master class
11.00am - Ezra Brown
2.00pm - Benito Gonzalez
Concert
8.45pm “Alfonso 25” – A Jazz Tribute to the Music of Alfonso Soliano featuring The Guerzos
Friday, 11th September, 2015
Workshop / Master Class
2.00pm - Frederik Koster
Seats for the workshops are limited. Register here and pay the registration fee RM 15.00. Pn. Azzura Aziz at the Cultural Centre, University Malaya. Phone: +603 79673454 - Email azzura_aziz@um.edu.my
Closing date is 20th August 2015.
Concerts
8.00pm - UM Jazz Ensemble
9.00pm - Frederik Koster Quartet
10.00pm - Ezra Brown
11.00pm - Colour Codes ft Jordan Rivers
Saturday, 12th September, 2015
Concerts
4.00pm - UiTm Jazz Ensemble
5.00pm - Bastian Stein Duo
6.00pm - Benito Gonzalez
8.00pm - Frederik Koster Quartet
8.45pm - Maria Angela Rebona
9.30pm - Lao Tizer Quartet
10.30pm - Eric Wyatt Quartet
11.30pm - Ezra Brown & Barry Likumahuwa
Sunday, 13th September 2015
Concerts
6.00pm - Patrick Terbrack Quartet ft Hiroyuki Yagi
8.00pm - Najwa Mahiaddin
8.45pm - Chieli Minucci & Special EFX
9.45pm - The John Coltrane All Star Band
10.30pm - KL Jazz Project & Helga Violin
11.15pm - Black Codes ft Jamie Wilson & Chris Ong
Ticketing Information:
Ticket Prices:
Ticketing Hotline: +603 78807999
Online Booking: www.ticketpro.com.my/
For More Information:
Phone: +603 56377742 / +603 56371539
Email: charles@klinternationaljazz.com
URL: www.klinternationaljazz.com/
TW: twitter.com/kljazztweets
FB: www.facebook.com/KLInternationalJazzFestival