Umisora, Japanese Jazz Trio in Brunei
By CT Hj Mahmod

The highly acclaimed Umisora during their rehearsal
yesterday at the Lobby Lounge

For the first time ever, Japan's highly acclaimed Japanese Jazz trio, Umisora, is in Brunei to make their debut, upon a friendly invitation by the Brunei Japan Friendly Association (BJFA). It is part of the activities to promote the Asean-Japan Exchange year 2003.

The talented trio arrived in Brunei on April 16 and will be performing live during high tea at the Lobby Lounge of the Empire Hotel and Country Club tomorrow.

Umisora, literally meaning Umi - Sea and Sora - Sky, comprises 29-year-old Ms Fumi Sekihara (violinist), 32-year-old Yuki Murakami (pianist), and 36-year-old Mr Yuichiro Hiraoka (guitarist).

Ms Fumi Sekihara started to learn violin at the age of 3 and graduated from Toho Music College. She later became a Concert Mistress at Chikuho Symphony Orchestra in 1995. Since 1999, she has been a favourite at annual international concerts in Pusan, South Korea and Tsingtao, Mainland China.

Ms Yuki Murakami learnt piano at the age of 3 and graduated from Musashino Music University in 1993. Besides performing regularly in China, she is also a member of another unique formation of 3 musicians, comprising piano, percussion and shamisen (a traditional Japanese instrument).

Mr Yuichiro Hiraoka picked up guitar at the age of 11 before learning professionally under Mr Makoto Mtsushita. In 2001, he released a solo guitar album entitled "Its about time for" and had performed with other musicians in various concerts.

Lovers of jazz will be in for at treat, as the talented group will create the perfect setting for a Jazz Afternoon with their upbeat tunes performed in perfect harmony on the violin, piano and guitar.

Priced at B$15+ per head, afternoon tea at the Lobby Lounge consists of a traditional English High Tea of cakes, scones with cream and jam and finger sandwiches.For reservations, please contact 2418888 ext. 5008.

The highly acclaimed Japanese trio will be performing at Spaghettini, during a dinner hosted by BJFA tonight. And they will also perform at the Royal Berkshire Ballroom of JPCC Polo Club on Saturday night.

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin