Interview by William Chan
The Macau Jazz Orchestra (MJO) and Regency Art Hotel are jointly presenting the “Macau Cabaret” live band concert at the hotel’s ballroom on August 17, conductor Gregory Wong Weng Hou, organiser Mars Lee Siu Hong, and the hotel’s GM Willie Tay told the Post last week in an online interview.
The concert will feature various dance music styles like swing, cha-cha, mambo, tango, and more, promising a delightful evening of live music suitable for all ages. The ballroom is equipped with a stage for diners to dance to the music.
Tay emphasised that as one of the pioneering hotels in Macau, Regency Art Hotel continuously introduces fresh ideas for its guests. “The Macau Cabaret night is a collaborative effort with local musicians, aiming to provide a platform for Macau’s music and dance communities,” he noted.
Tay added that whether guests wish to socialise, relish the live band, or dance, the relaxed atmosphere of the evening promises an enjoyable experience.
Lee acknowledged the challenges in ensuring the success of this year’s event, given the trend of weekend trips to the mainland impacting local businesses and live events. He pointed out that despite Macau’s glamorous past when music and dance were integral to daily life, these traditions have somewhat faded in recent decades.
“We considered the collaboration with Regency Art Hotel as an opportunity to revive the allure of live music and draw people back to the dance floor,” he said, adding that jazz music should not be viewed solely as music for seated enjoyment, but as a genre that can be embraced with body movements and dancing.
Wong said that in order to provide a diverse musical experience for the attendees at this dance event, they deliberately selected a variety of musical styles.
Drawing from his past experience with dance events in Taiwan a few years ago, Wong said he understood the necessary coordination between musicians and dancers. “Besides keeping a solid groove, the jazz orchestra must ensure that the music is played at appropriate tempos to accommodate the dancers’ movements. These are the primary considerations we focus on when selecting songs and rehearsing tempos,” he said.
Tickets are priced at 398 patacas and include a pre-dinner cocktail and buffet before the live music dance session. For further details and reservations, contact 8899 6861.
This undated photo show the ballroom of Regency Art Hotel in Taipa. – Photo provided by Regency Art Hotel
Gregory Wong Weng Hou plays trombone.
Mars Lee Siu Hong plays the guitar.
The Macau Jazz Orchestra (MJO) performs at the Carmo Hall in Taipa in June. – Photos provided by Mars Lee
The Macau Jazz Orchestra recently rehearses at their own rehearsal room in an industrial building in Areia Preta district for its “Macau Cabaret” live band concert on August 17 at Regency Art Hotel in Taipa.
