JAPAN: Sarawak’s cultural footprint continues to expand globally, with eight talented musicians from Kuching’s The Band Lab delivering a captivating performance at the 60th Regular Concert of the Aikodai Meiden High School Symphonic Band.
Held at Century Hall in Nagoya Congress Centre, the event drew an audience of 3,000 and celebrated cross-cultural musical collaboration between Malaysia and Japan.
According to a media release, the Band Lab musicians, alongside their Japanese counterparts, showcased Sarawak’s rich musical heritage through two standout performances.
Under the baton of founder and president of The Band Lab, Jesmond Siew, they performed the Bunga Raya Concert March, a piece by Malaysian composer Yeo Chow Shern.
This was followed by an orchestral rendition of Bekikis Bulu Betis, arranged by Yeo, a lively Sarawakian folk tune.
Adding a unique twist, the latter featured the poco-poco dance, blending Sarawakian dancers with Japanese participants who learned the routine during the Sarawak International Band and Orchestra Festival (SIBOFest 2024) in Kuching.
Reflecting on the experience, Siew expressed pride in the group’s achievement.
“Seeing Sarawakian musicians perform alongside our Japanese counterparts on such a grand stage in Japan was like a dream come true.
“The energy and enthusiasm from both groups demonstrated how music can transcend language and cultural differences.”
The Japanese participants echoed these sentiments, with a member of the Aikodai Meiden High School Band saying that the warmth and passion of the Sarawakian musicians were unforgettable.
“Learning about their culture and performing together made this an unforgettable experience.”
This milestone performance stemmed from relationships forged during SIBOFest 2024, an international music festival hosted by The Band Lab.
The festival welcomed over 220 participants from around the globe, fostering cultural exchange and musical collaboration.
Bonds formed at the event have since blossomed into enduring partnerships, including the invitation for Sarawakian musicians to perform in Japan.
Integral to these connections is The Band Lab Japan, an international branch established to strengthen ties between Sarawak and Japan.
This branch has streamlined logistical support for Sarawakian musicians performing abroad and facilitates ongoing cultural exchange programs.
Its efforts have been pivotal in organising international participation in SIBOFest and nurturing sustainable musical collaborations.
The Band Lab’s commitment to promoting music education and cultural tourism has positioned Sarawak as a burgeoning hub for global musical excellence.
The Band Lab further stressed that by fostering cross-border partnerships, promoting music education, and supporting cultural tourism, they are actively shaping Sarawak’s reputation as a hub for musical excellence.
“The success of this performance in Japan reaffirms The Band Lab’s commitment to elevating Sarawak’s presence in the global arts community, showcasing the power of music to unite cultures and create lasting international connections.”
//ENDS WITH PICS
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Group photo of The Band Lab members and their Japanese counterparts, holding the Sarawak flag.
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The Band Lab members in batik dancing Bekikis Bulu Betis with Aikodai Meiden students.
