Music, arts and the mountain – It’s the epitome of a music festival. Win and I headed to Sofitel last Friday for the second launch of the Malasimbo Music Festival for what only our contact, Ram has dubbed as the Coachella of Asia.
For those who aren’t familiar with the first Malasimbo Music Festival, it was held this February 2011 at Mt. Malasimbo—a 45 minute ride from the white beaches of Puerto Galera. It was a two-day fare where foreign and Filipino musical artists provided an unforgettable experience. Performances by such names as Cynthia Alexander, Aquarela, Caliph8 and many more provided the festive atmosphere to transform the mountain scene into a tribal and acoustic fiesta, heavy with beats and dancing. The natural amphitheater of the mountain was decorated visually by award-winning French-Filipina artist Olivia d’Aboville with themes reflecting nature, man and conservation. Proceeds of ticket sales went to reforestation, building a Mangyan village to protect the indigenous culture and installation of solar panels for their community.
The highly successful first Malasimbo Music Festival, brought attention not only to the local music and art scene it also brought attention to the environmental needs. The second festival will have its focus preserving the ocean and further increasing tourism and exposing the natural beauty of Puerto Galera.
The first one was so good, that the second one is bound to be better. Held over at Sofitel Hotel, The 2nd Launch of the Malasimbo Art and Music Festival featured speakers who discussed the focus and aim of the event. Once again, Malasimbo will be designed by Olivia d’Aboville, and she will be joined by a new set of visual artists including Risa Recio, Agnes Arellano, Billy Bonnevie, Nikki Luna and many more.
The festival will hold firm belief to Volume Unit Entertainment president Miro Grgic and will highlight the best that Filipino talent has to offer.
This year, the second Malasimbo Music Festival will be held March 2-4, 2012 extending to a three day music festival. The event is focused on Filipino traditional music mixed with a contemporary feel. In true Coachella fashion, camping is encouraged, as hotels were fully booked last festival. Just think of the money you can save and the chance to be part of nature. One of the headlining acts will be by Joe Bataan, who is the father of Latin Soul. They are also trying to work with the Mangyans to develop music with the event.
Save the date, March 2-4, and reserve your tickets by emailing info@malasimbomusicfestival.com—ROBIN SPARKLES
photos by Win Gonzales
via malasimbofestival
