THURSDAY-3 JULY 2008- CONCERT TO PROMOTE SANDAKAN AS TOURISM DESTINATION

Concert to promote Sandakan as tourism destination

SANDAKAN:

In conjunction with The Sandakan Festival, The Sandakan Municipal Council and Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn Bhd will jointly organize a one-night concert performance by the Virtuoso Ensemble at The Sabah Hotel here on July 19 at 7pm. Sabah Tourism Board Chairman Datuk Seri Tengku Zainal Adlin said at a press conference yesterday that the Virtuoso Ensemble performance is part of Sabah Tourism’s efforts to promote Sandakan aggressively as a tourism destination. “Sandakan is a gateway to Borneo’s wildlife as it is the entry point to the world-renowned Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre, Turtle Islands and the Kinabantangan River. “By bringing in this musical ensemble here in Sandakan, not only are we promoting our local talent but also give Sandakan residents a rare opportunity to enjoy such musical treats,” he said. The Virtuoso Ensemble is a unique Sabah-based musical group playing a combination of western and Chinese musical instruments including the violin, viola, cello, double bass, piano, yangqin, flute and percussion. This exclusive musical ensemble will be performing a series of classical favourites from Chinese legendary songstress Teresa Teng of Taiwan and some of local favourites such as Sayang Kinabalu and Rasa Sayang. Led by Mr Liaw Lam Thye, a chartered surveyor and registered valuer by profession, the Virtuos Ensemble members are among the founders of the Kota Kinabalu Symphony Orchestra (KKSO) which made their debut at the first of its kind and out-door performance during the ‘Sunset Symphony’ at the renowned Tanjung Simpang Mangayau, Tip of, Borneo in Kudat which attracted more than 600 people in 2004 and 2005. This eight-member ensemble was established in 2004 and since has performed in many public and private functions for corporations and professional institutions in Kota Kinabalu. Performances from the likes of the KKSO and the Virtuoso Ensemble are a perfect opportunity for locals and visitors to appreciate local talents and cultivate an opportunity for classical music among the audiences in Sandakan, particularly the younger generation. Tickets for the one-night only concert performance are priced at RM200. However, there will be free admissions for all school students at the same venue at 3pm. For ticket bookings and more information, the general public and musical enthusiasts can contact Ms Josie Sabinus of the Sandakan Municipal Council at 089-273753.