RWMF 14

There's nothing quite like the atmosphere of a music festival. Then again, there’s nothing quite like the Rainforest World Music Festival. Now well into its second decade, the 14th edition of the Rainforest World Music Festival 2011 brings dazzling performances from across the globe as festival-goers flock to the magical land of Borneo for three magical days of daytime music workshops and action-packed nightly shows. The event which has put Sarawak on the world map will be held from July 8-10 at the Sarawak Cultural Village, which is located 35km outside Kuching and set against the magnificent backdrop of the legendary Mount Santubong.

And where better to listen to the resounding rhythms of the rainforest than in a living museum dedicated to the preservation of the indigenous cultures on the island of Borneo? Under the imposing shadow of Mount Santubong, and in the midst of a virgin rainforest at the edge of the South China Sea, the Rainforest World Music Festival is a unique festival that brings together on the same stage renowned world musicians from all continents and indigenous musicians from the interiors of the mythical island of Borneo.

The kinship and spirit among music makers and music lovers alike as they celebrate one another in the cradle of Mother Nature is unique to the green haven where thousand-year old trees reign. An annual communion whose spirit is as timeless as the intricate ecosystem that celebrates diversity of life, it has thrived on a winning formula. Three days beginning at 2pm everyday with workshops that allow festival-goers to interact with the musicians and experience the music and dance of the different cultures up close. The nights are five-hour concerts that take place on a main stage and smaller “Tree Stage” that carries on past midnight.

The festival then culminates in a huge finale on the final night, where all performers are invited to play onstage as one. Its formula of afternoon informative workshops, ethno-musical lectures, jamming sessions and mini concerts, followed by evening performances on the main stage has proven to be a hit with audiences, who come from near and far for a fun filled, wholesome festival experience with a country fair atmosphere amidst lush greenery.

The exciting and eclectic line-up for this year's Rainforest World Music Festival has now been finalized, with 22 bands making their debut appearance on the RWMF 2011 stage from across the globe from a host of genres making for a truly unique world music experience. The must-watch performers this year are Frigg (Finland) and Agungbeat (Sabah, Malaysia), alongside others. Besides good music and great company, a cultural bazaar with over 60 stalls awaits, featuring a wide variety of local, fusion and international food and beverages as well as stalls selling festival memorabilia, performers CDs and collectibles at the venue.