Classical concert to raise funds for Aceh

he Jakarta Post, Jakarta

The local branch of Jeunesses Musicalles International (JMI), a world organization promoting classical music for young people, is expected to stage a charity concert to raise funds for Acehnese children.

The concert, titled Music, Youth and Friendship: The Empowering Force, will be held on Aug. 20 at the ballroom of Grand Flora Hotel in Kemang, South Jakarta and will feature the Croatian jazz group HGM Jazz Orkestar from Zagreb, Croatia and Balawan & Batuan Ethnic Jazz outfit from Bali.

Scores of young jazz musicians are also expected to share the bill with the two groups.

Chairperson of Indonesian Youth Music (MRI) Yayuk Rahardjo said that the funds raised from the concert will be used for MRI educational programs for young Acehnese who have been deprived of proper access to schooling.

The funds will be used for a workshop and festival of Dikee (Aceh traditional performance art based on dzikir, an Islamic ritual that chants the name of God) for youngsters in the tsunami-hit province.

Portions of the funds will also be used to help finance JMI's musicians exchange program.

JMI is a not-for-profit organization working to promote peace and empower the young generation through music.

Founded 60 years ago, JMI is now joined by approximately 70 member countries, including Indonesia, which is represented by MRI.

box For further information contact: Music Remaja Indonesia Jl. Panglima Polim XIII/83 tel. 7247400, fax. 72793973 mobile 0818 705189