Chiang Mai Fest, World Music Event

[PostmanPat]

Just returned from this (hopefully) annual event, held this year outdoors at the much maligned (including by me!) Promenada. Sponsored by the TAT (Tourism Authority of Thailand), this was an opportunity, unfortunately spurned by most Thais, to hear innovative, original World Music from a few artists but especially an outstanding band from Capetown ("Hot Water") and an extremely good Indian Fusion Rock/ Jazz band from Malaysia ("Akasha")

The vast majority of the couple of hundred attendees on Sunday were expats, perhaps there is no interest in Thailand for top quality World Music, or perhaps the advertising wasnt sufficient. Anyway, it was a great evening of very fine music, just hope it continues next year, and that similar quality music is available then.

Apart from the Kings Jazz Festival from a few years ago, this was by far the best evening of live music I have heard in over ten years in Chiang Mai.

[iainiain101]

Just seemed strange to stage it in the road and not inside or at the amphitheater that they built there.

[amexpat]

I went Saturday night and noticed lots of young Thai folk. The Italian opera singer was very well received, to my pleasant surprise.

There was plenty of food to chose from, good lighting and sound. Well done, I'd say.

[elektrified]

I agree with Postman. Akasha and Hot Water were two of the best acts I've heard in many years here. I've been to every International and Regional Music Festival since I've been here. This one was very good, although I had other things going on and didn't see the daytime acts. I did go both nights and enjoyed the evening acts.

It should be no surprise that there was a low turnout of Thai music enthusiasts. They generally don't have much interest, just like they don't have any interest in the Olympics unless a Thai athlete is competing. Compare it to that terrible "jazz" festival behind Rimping near the Airport about 2 years ago where the artists were familiar names in Thailand and the event was absolutely packed and a huge success because natives were performing.

I too, hope they have more events like this.

[daoyai]

I think the location is part of the reason for few locals, last year at 3 kings (town center) were many locals as well as random tourists and younger folks.

[elektrified]

I think the location is part of the reason for few locals, last year at 3 kings (town center) were many locals as well as random tourists and younger folks.

Could be location. Yes there were more younger people (although mostly foreign tourists, single girls from Korea, China, etc. than locals) at the last 3 Kings Concert, which was also excellent. Looked to me like average age of attendees this past weekend was about 60 years old.