The JM Jazz World Orchestra delivered a performance in the garden of the Hudek family in Marija Bistrica, officially marking the end of this year’s KUMBJAZZ festival season. The event served as a key stop on the international project’s tour, which has for 14 years connected young talents from diverse cultural backgrounds.
The ensemble consists of 23 talented musicians selected through a rigorous international audition, to which more than 150 candidates applied. The orchestra members come from over 15 countries across five continents, and prior to the performance in Marija Bistrica, they had undergone intensive preparation in their base in Grožnjan.
Artistic direction was taken on by American trombonist and composer Luis Bonilla, who has recently performed on tours with Phil Collins. Under his guidance, the orchestra presented a programme rich in a blend of well-known pop hits and original compositions.
The programme included pieces from the album Jazz Pops / Pop Swings, recorded prior to the pandemic and released last year. The audience was treated to ten tracks from the record, including hits by Aretha Franklin, George Michael, Carole King and Ariana Grande.
In addition to the covers, the repertoire featured original compositions by Luis Bonilla. The performance was organised by the STAV Association, which stands behind the KUMBJAZZ festival, with the atmosphere in the garden providing an ideal setting for the close of the summer cultural season.
