Down, bushed and agitated. That was me during one Friday night after work for several reasons I cannot declare. Then again, I still have to consume my remaining energy just to witness my much awaited event. I can’t seem to find another suitable schedule for me to go out and unwind. All I had was that night. One night. 

Eight days of city mall tours featuring 35 Filipino artists performing in eight different malls as part of the 2^nd Philippine International Jazz Festival. And I preferred visiting Serendra at the Fort. A newly opened complex infront of Market Market. The night was lonely for me as the coldness of the air wrapped my entire being.   

Photographers were everywhere by the time I came in and ‘Mother Earth’ band was already on stage. I took the front seat and started to take pleasure in the sound of soothing jazz.  I felt sedated.  It was quite a long set. I’m not actually sure. Maybe my world was too slow then. I really don’t know. I forgot about the time. I found myself tapping my hands and slightly swaying my body along with the magnificent music.  

After Mother Earth, Host Michael Konik introduced the next balikbayan performer. Originally from Olongapo, Charmaine Clamor was the 1^st Filipina who played in California Jazz Radio. She started her performance with the song “Funny Valentine”. She also sang in pride our very own “Dahil Sa Iyo” in two different languages. It has been followed by a duet from Charmaine Clamor and Michael Konik.  

As an ice breaker, they had a jazz trivia contest. And the lucky winner was a Taiwanese woman, who traveled all her way from Taiwan to Manila with her family just to take part on this special music event. She confidently and directly answered the host’s questions proving that she deserved to win two tickets to a one-day concert at the Coco Palace, CCP Complex on February 23. Now she and her husband have a chance to see Brazil’s jazz queen, Flora Purim performing live for free.  For the finale, Bob Basa Trio performed fervently, spreading out samba vibe to all the viewers within the vicinity. Bob Basa Trio consists of Toni Bernardo on percussions, Ignasio Milito on drums and Eileen Sison on vocals. Bob Basa of course is considered as the leading bossa nova guitarist in the country. Eileen Sison on the otherhand has a radio segment at Crossover (a radio station) and also a musician of Guarana (musica brasileira samba e bossa nova). 

It was already midnight and the show was over. I felt a lot better than before. I almost forgot that I’m in fact, alone. No big deal. I’m happy to be alone sometimes. Coming at Serendra, watching the performers for PI Jazz Festival was my treat to myself. I had fun. I left the venue in high spirits. Times like that, all we need is some real good music coming from some real good musicians.