Masekela, Klugh, Kuti to headline Bayelsa Jazz festival
THE entertainment scene in Bayelsa State will soon come alive as Yenagoa, the State capital plays host to a galaxy of Jazz artistes from across the globe.
An incredible array of international stars will converge in Yenagoa to ply their trade in the first Bayelsa International Jazz Festival slated for December 7, 2013.
The Jazz music fiesta with the theme: “RYTHYM OF LIFE” is being packaged by the Bayelsa State Tourism Development Agency as part of its strategic plan to promote tourism in the state.
Already, Hugh Masekela, the African Jazz music Icon and Somi, the Ruwandan born America based Jazz music super star have signed a performance contract with the Agency. Other top artists expected at the festival are Femi Kuti, the American jazz legend, Earl Klugh, Dapo Dina, a Brass band from cotonou, among others.
In an interview with newsmen the Director General BSTDA Mrs Ebizi Ndiomu- Brown, revealed that the Bayelsa International Jazz Festival is being organized to promote and further market a sustainable and responsible tourism in the State.
The Jazz festival, she said, will provide a veritable platform to market the rich and vibrant cultural heritage of our people and a banquet of our hospitality. The event is expected to attract global audience.
Mrs Ebizi Brown noted that the Jazz festival will feature a two part concert - one in the afternoon and the main event in the evening and musical training session to equip Bayelsan youths for a career in the entertainment industry.
The Director General observed that the Agency is working with a consortium of entertainment consultants to ensure the success of the project.
Mrs Ebizi Brown has called on the private sector especially the multinational companies operating in the South- South region to leverage on the festival to partner with the state government and also promote their products and services.
All arrangements for a successful festival are in place.
According to Mrs Brown the Jazz concert will be an annual event from next year adding that Bayelsa Jazz festival will be placed on the calendar of global Jazz festivals.
The Agency has launched a dedicated website for the Jazz festival for easy accessibility interested persons.
www. bayelsajazz. com