Celebrating Malaysia and Celebrating Malaysian Talent: WVC Live Concert

This poster is enough to grab your attention. 

WVC, a Malaysian Jazz Ensemble, comprising of jazz pianist maestro Tay Cher Siang, saxophonist Julian Chan, Bassist AJ Popshuvit, Drummer KJ Wong, presents a rare live concert at the KL Performing Arts Centre. 

At a time, when the economy is not invigorating and people are holding back spending money lavishly, some of them chose to spend Wednesday night at a jazz concert, which is sold out for 2 nights! 

The first time I ever saw Tay Cher Siang play the piano, I instantly named him the best jazz pianist in the world. It is really uncommon for people who see him play and not want to follow his career, unless you really don't appreciate music. Again, he wowed the 500-strong appreciative crowd with ironic precision of jazz music. 

The night was filled with some surprises. Other than the usual jazz band, they added a string orchestra called Arioso Sinfonia, whose members ranged from ages 12-18. Thanks to my wonderful friend Pearlly, I got a good seat. But why is it there is an uncle who insists to sit upright with his very round head blocking my view?!

In some songs, ballroom dancers, an Indian traditional dancer, a Chinese theatrical performer, a modern contemporary dancer and even a calligrapher lent their grace to a celebration of Malaysia's diverse cultures and unity, which Cher Siang so emphasised on the night.

Yudi's second song with the band, Silence of The Night, a song that she composed together with Cher Siang for her Shades of Passion album, had a warm tune and was soulfully delivered.

Winnie Ho, was a refreshing surprise as she gave such surprising jazz dynamics to the old Chinese favourite Girl From South Sea (南海姑娘）。

With Winnie Ho who sang
with good dynamics

In the year 2000, I produced Astro Talent Quest whose winner was a pint-sized freshie, Winnie Ho. I knew she had continued singing and went into jazz, but have never attended any of her shows. It was a nice reunion and I laughingly told her that she had improved a lot! So proud of her.

my most favourite jazz pianist in the world

When I first met Cher Siang, he was a young and shy guy. He promptly said he was old already and had become more "thick skin." Tonight, he led the audience with his charming Malaysian humour, and had them eating out of his amazing, piano-playing hands. I thanked him for his performance and congratulated him for having improved his showmanship.

With Yudi, songstress friend, Tay Cher Siang, and the talented and dynamic Pearlly