After two successful pocket shows held early this year, the Tokyo Manila Jazz and Arts Festival (TMJAF) returns with a two-day celebration of music and art on Oct. 17-19.

The festival kicks off with a special Evening of Jazz segment at the Long Bar of Raffles Makati on Oct. 17, 8:30 p.m., followed by the Main Festival concert at the Rockwell Tent on Oct. 18, 7:30 p.m.

It culminates with a free concert, “Young Artists Jam with TMJAF” at Greenbelt 5 on Oct. 19, 7:30 p.m.

“Tokyo Manila Jazz and Arts Festival focuses on the cultural exchange and artistic collaboration between Japan and the Philippines. It aims to inspire and trigger innovation from both sides on multiple levels,” says Maja Olivares-Co, TMJAF cofounder and executive producer.

“The dream goes on for TMJAF as we again bring together two countries through a bridge called jazz. We hope that musicians and audience alike, especially the young, will experience a great sense of artistic value and continue to be part of our global music network,” adds Charito Suyama, TMJAF founder, coproducer and a highly regarded singer in Japan.

Participating artists

Participating artists from Tokyo include pianist Yuki Arimasa, bass player Benisuki Sakai, percussionist Juasa Kanoh and saxophonist Hisatsugu Suzuki.

The Filipino contingent includes pianist Boy Katindig, Sitti, The CompanY, The AMP (Asosasyon ng Musikong Pilipino) Band with conductor Mel Villena, Extrapolation, The Brat Pack, and the Philippine Youth Symphonic Band (PYSB).

The festival includes a free workshop for 100 young musicians on Oct. 19 at the National Museum from 10:30 a.m. to 2 pm. Auditions will be undertaken by the PYSB chaired by Irene Araneta, who is also music consultant for TMJAF.

The Main Festival event will also feature “Jazz Art” by Fabo, featuring his fun and whimsical illustrations.

For inquiries and ticket reservation, contact 0905-5439457 and 0920-4048934; or e-mail [email protected]. Tickets are also available at Ticketworld, tel. 8919999.