Weekly event at Central Market showcases traditional music

To showcase Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage, Central Market Kuala Lumpur (CM) has teamed up with University Institute Teknologi Mara (UiTM) for a celebration of music and arts.

This unique partnership aims to introduce Malaysia’s diversity in music and culture to foreign visitors and tourists and simultaneously promote interest in traditional Malaysian folk music among the younger generation. Kickstarted in February, the entertaining musical performance titledMusic For Life is performed by various students from UiTM Faculty of Music.

Fusion: UiTM students playing traditional instruments together with modern ones.

The event is held every Friday evening at Kasturi Walk, Central Market, from 8.30pm to 9pm. The beautiful music ensemble brings to stage a wonderful array of Malaysian traditional instruments and genres including the bamboo ensemble, the ukulele, Borneo music compositions, the saxophone, percussions and strings. Discover the keroncong — a type of folk music originally from Java, Indonesia and performed using the ukulele alongside other string instruments.

A covered walkway at Central Market Kuala Lumpur, Kasturi Walk boasts an al fresco ambience with a variety of food and beverage kiosks selling local snacks and bites as well as kiosks featuring souvenirs, accessories and handicrafts. “The unique collaboration between Central Market Kuala Lumpur and UiTM provides an excellent opportunity for tourists and locals to explore and experience the cultural landscape of Malaysia through the development of music and arts,” said complex manager Cheong Wai Mun.

Beat it: A musician beating a traditional drum during the show.

“The link between arts, culture and tourism has been an ongoing inspiration for Central Market and we are committed to create a platform for local artists to showcase their skills and talent to promote the rich Malaysian culture and diversity.” The Music For Live performance by the students of UiTM is an ongoing event at Kasturi Walk and features an array of exciting programmes combining arts and music through classical and contemporary music renditions.

This special musical performance is free and open for the public to attend, every Friday at 8.30pm.

-thestar online.