Many Things Ensemble | Photo credit: special arrangement
When I think of jazz, a vision comes to mind La la Land comes to mind, where Sebastian explains to Mia that this style of music is far from the laid-back, elevator music we often associate it with. “It’s struggle, and it’s compromise, and it’s just… it’s new every time. It’s brand new every night. It’s very, very exciting!” he says, admiring the band playing in front of them.
If you’ve ever felt like experiencing jazz in a Hollywood studio or an underground club in New York, this weekend is perfect for you. Hyatt Regency Chennai, in association with Social Spirit, is hosting the J4Jazz Weekender, which will see eight bands performing in different styles at different venues across the property.
Joy Sharma Band | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Ruban Das, General Manager, Hyatt Regency Chennai, says, “We don’t have too many international jazz festivals in India. I have been in Chennai for the past year and a half, building a jazz community through my Friday events. It has gained popularity, and that has given us the confidence to take it to the next level with this festival.”
The three-day festival began with the screening of the following films. midnight in ParisA classic Woody Allen film that takes you back to the 20s while you enjoy an era-appropriate brunch at 365 AS. On the first day, two bands — Auroville-based AV Trio and Joy Sharma Band, a gypsy jazz trio from Bengaluru — will perform at 365 AS, the lounge bar of the Hyatt Regency. “AV Trio, my latest favourite, plays bossa nova, a jazz style from Latin America. They sing in Spanish,” says Ruban, noting that they will be the opening act at the festival.
AV Trio | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
The second day will feature a New York-style Pranzo brunch, while Auroville-based duo Suryan & Shanks (Suryan Stettner and Shanks Kini) will treat the audience to melodious music. In the evening, the pace picks up with performances by the Auroville-based Matt Littlewood Quartet, who have previously performed at the Madras Jazz Festival, and the Chennai-based Kirtana Krishna Quartet, who blend influences of Carnatic music with jazz.
Last day, after the screening New York, New York — Martin Scorsese’s musical romance about a saxophonist and a singer — along with Hangover Brunch at 365 AS, The Many Things Ensemble will take the stage. This three-person band from Chennai draws inspiration from many things like nature, art and the sounds around them. “Saxophonist, Maarten Visser has been with us since the beginning,” says Ruban, referring to the regular jazz nights at the Hyatt. Chennai pianist Aman Mahajan will also present his collection titled asylum with my group later that day.
What makes this festival different from the Hyatt’s Friday night jazz sessions is the wider group of musicians involved. The festival features local, national and international artists, each bringing their own styles and genres. “The beauty of jazz is that the same song can never be played the same way twice. The genre allows musicians to explore different notes and versions within the framework of a song,” says Ruban.
Matt Littlewood | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
On all three days, at the Lobby Lounge, Chennai-based band Tuesday Jazzers will set the mood for the upcoming performances. Parisian High Tea will be served from 4 pm to 6.30 pm, which will perfectly match the lively rhythm of the music. Biscotti will also have a flea market selling music memorabilia, accessories and other items throughout the day.
Chennai’s jazz community has grown over the past few years, with younger audiences showing interest in the genre. “It’s important for us because Chennai has always been a home to music, art and culture. We wanted to do this before the city is ready for its own cultural and musical events,” says Ruban, referring to the city’s famous Margazhi music season.
The J4Jazz Weekender will be held from September 20 to 22 at Hyatt Regency, Chennai from 11 am to 11 pm. For reservations and tickets call 9790787813 / 9884369333.
Published – September 20, 2024 03:26 PM IST
