Music for the Soul in the Heart of Paradise

Music for the Soul in the Heart of Paradise

Take a world class destination, add some heart-rocking musicians, tip in a dash of romance and you've got the Fiji 2011 International Jazz and Blues Festival.

Festival director Billy Te Kahika says the four day jazz, blues and soul celebration, to be hosted at the acclaimed Port Denarau, was put together on the back of a very successful Samoa event last year.

“It's luxury, romance, top entertainment and totally chilled,” he says.

He's gathered more than 100 musicians from all over the world for a line-up that boasts the likes of the iconic Hammond Gamble, Kiwi guitar hero Billy TK Jnr, UK blues guitarist Tony Painting, the internationally-acclaimed jazz pianist Phil Broadhurst and LA crooner Diana Harris. And that's just for starters.

The May event also stars musicians from Canada, Australia, American Samoa, the United States and New Zealand, who will be joined by a raft of very talented Fijian stars to create another special Pacific festival.

“This is music for the soul in the heart of paradise,” says Te Kahika. “We really looked hard to find the perfect destination to follow on from our Samoan festival, and Port Denarau fits the bill superbly.

“We have everything we need in one compact location – amazing restaurants, top attractions, luxurious accommodation and world-class music. We couldn't ask for any more!”

The festival has been welcomed by Fiji Tourism chief executive Josefa Tuamotu.

“We are very excited to be hosting this international festival, and delighted to welcome world class musicians and guests to Fiji and Port Denarau,” he says.

He's promising all guests will leave enchanted by the friendliness of his people, the beauty of the islands, and truly treated by the music.

Three days of music is scheduled to be held at Port Denarau's retail centre, topped off with an outdoor concert at the sublime Denarau Golf Course.

Air Pacific has come on board to support the 2011 festival, with complete packages – airfares, accommodation and festival tickets – soon available. Te Kahika is encouraging everyone to make a week of it.

“Come early or stay late and explore Fiji to enjoy all it has to offer.”

The festival runs from May 12-15. Tickets, costing NZ$120 each, are available now from www.fijijbfest.org , Our Pacific Holidays and House of Travel.

For more information head to www.fijijbfest.org .

ENDS

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