New Zealand Embassy “Most Supportive Institution” at Java Jazz 2011

Nairobi Trio Manager Bharat Jamnades, Ambassador David Taylor, and Political Officer James Waite after the award ceremony at Java Jazz

“Absolutely delighted” was Ambassador David Taylor’s reaction to the New Zealand Embassy receiving the award for the “most supportive institution” at Java Jazz 2011.

“Java Jazz is one of the world’s premier jazz festivals. Attracting the likes of Santana, Corinne Rae Bailey, George Benson and George Duke, as well as 100,000 people for a three day celebration of music is no small feat”.

“The New Zealand Embassy, through the Government’s cultural diplomacy international fund, has worked closely with Java Jazz for two years to share New Zealand jazz talent through the festival.”

The Nairobi Trio from New Zealand participated this year and Nathan Haines in 2010.

“The Nairobi Trio is a happy union of New Zealand and Indonesia, with young Indonesian guitarist Jonas Julio holding centre stage. Jonas was educated and trained in jazz guitar in New Zealand, but remains very proud of his Indonesian roots and heritage. We could not have asked for better musical Ambassador’s for the relationship than the Nairobi Trio”.

“These artists brought some New Zealand flair to the event. We have strong political, economic and social ties with Indonesia. The Embassy was happy to celebrate the partnership through jazz”.

“We congratulate Peter Gontha and others involved in the organisation of Java Jazz on an excellent festival”, Ambassador Taylor concluded.

The New Zealand Ambassador received the “most supportive institution” award from Minister of Culture and Tourism Ir. Jero Wacik and Chairman of Java Jazz Festival Peter Gontha in a ceremony before George Benson’s closing night performance on Sunday 6 March. As Java Jazz noted in giving this award, “The support of the Embassy is concrete proof that music lovers may carry out diplomacy and harmony in jazz”.