The event – held at Kuching in Sarawak, Malaysia – brings together all the different cultures in the world under one roof to showcase their music and heritage. The Rainforest World Music Festival is an international annual event that takes place on the island of Borneo, in the East Malaysian state of Sarawak. It was the first of its kind when it started on a very modest scale in 1998 and is now
one of the biggest festivals in Asia. After 20 years of showcasing all genres of world music, be it the raw roots played in remote areas, classical traditional ensembles, folk, world beat and world fusion, it has grown to be known for its wide ranging repertoire of acts, the warm camaraderie, and the tropical and lush ambience of its venue. This 3-day festival holds evening performances on two open air stages, and afternoon more intimate shows on an indoor Theatre Stage. While the heart of the festival pounds on these stages, it is often said that the soul of the festival is in the numerous Mini Sessions (formerly called Workshops) that are held over the afternoons of the festival in ethnic Sarawak houses. Here, one can find everything from insights into ethnic instruments of the world, vocal and instrumental techniques, interactive dance workshops, percussion frenzy, children’s craft and musical story sessions, cultural talks and demonstrations, and much much more – all in an informal setting where audience and musicians alike, come together in a huge community feel-good spirit. There are daily drum circles, a Doodle Wall, instrument tutorials. A wide variety of food, drink stalls, The Craft Bazaar and tattoo artists add to the colour and joie de vivre of the festival. rwmf.net
