Experience a percussion powerhouse as the Kaleidoscope VII: HANDS International Drumming Festival takes over Zepp Kuala Lumpur on October 19th and 20th. Under the theme “Gendang Sedunia” (Drums of the World), this spectacular event will unite drummers, percussionists and various artists from three countries, showcasing the diverse and vibrant rhythms that bind us all.
Since its inception in 2009, Kaleidoscope has brought together world-class percussionists from over 13 countries, offering audiences a unique cultural experience. This year’s festival continues this tradition, featuring renowned ensembles from China, and Indonesia. With over a hundred performers, the two-hour extravaganza will transport audiences to distant lands without leaving Malaysia.
A Symphony of Diverse Cultures
International renowned percussionists will bring their diverse musical traditions to Kaleidoscope VII.
The Chongdaoyuan Jiangzhou Drum Troupe from China, a national intangible cultural heritage unit, will captivate local audiences with their unique traditional percussion instruments, transporting listeners to a world of ancient melodies.
Indonesia’s Gamelan Yuganada, led by composer I Wayan Sudirana, will enchant listeners with the ethereal beauty of the Balinese gamelan. Their performance of “Pesu Mulih” will showcase the intricate rhythms and harmonies of this traditional music. The song embodies the Balinese gamelan philosophy of asymmetric balance, where opposing forces are combined to create a harmonious whole.
Local Rhythms Take Center Stage
Malaysia’s own percussion ensembles will also grace the stage, showcasing their world class talents.
Hands Percussion will redefine the boundaries of percussion with an innovative original composition, “Re-percussion.” This ground-breaking piece offers a fresh perspective on the group’s signature sound by deconstructing percussion elements, returning to the essence of rhythmic expression.
Rhythm in Bronze, the award-winning Malaysian contemporary gamelan ensemble, will captivate audiences with their evocative performances of “Samudra Vasane” and “Suntuk Masa,” inviting listeners to reflect on the natural world and the passage of time.
Adding to the local flavour, Sri Maayakarar will ignite the stage with a high-energy performance of Urumi Melam, fusing ancient Tamil rhythms with modern beats.
Other local performance groups and artists such as Akademi Ajurnasukma, San Percussion, Dhiya Suhaili, and Leslie Anak Ali will wow the crowd with their diverse musical styles.
A Global Celebration of Rhythm
Kaleidoscope VII is more than just a concert; it is a celebration of unity and diversity. By bringing together drummers, percussionists and artists from different cultures, the festival highlights the universal language of music and the power of rhythm to connect people from all walks of life.
Performance Schedule:
– 19 Oct (Saturday) 8pm
– 20 Oct (Sunday) 11:30am & 4:30pm
Join us at Zepp Kuala Lumpur for an unforgettable musical experience. For tickets, please visit Cloudjoi and search for “HANDS INTERNATIONAL DRUMMING FESTIVAL – KALEIDOSCOPE 7 GENDANG SEDUNIA.”
