ISLAMABAD: The residence Spanish ambassador Jose A de Ory was alive with energy on a warm September evening as guests gathered in the elegant hall, its high ceilings and intricate decor creating the perfect backdrop for what promised to be an unforgettable night of jazz.

The live concert was part of International Jazz Festival 2024.

The air buzzed with anticipation as people mingled, chatting softly while waiting for the performance to begin.

As the guests found their seats, the lights dimmed slightly, and the concert began.

In the cozy hall, three respected musicians prepared to play. Javier Colina stood next to his double bass, filling the hall with the vibrant sounds of jazz. Marc Miralta played his drum kit with a focused expression, and Perico Sambeat warmed up his saxophone, mellow notes that floated through the air.

Together, these three artists formed a powerful jazz trio, each bringing their own unique touch to the music. Colina started first, his double bass providing a smooth, steady rhythm that set the foundation for the performance.

Miralta joined in soon after, his drumsticks tapping out a lively beat that gave the music its pulse. Then, with a quick nod, Sambeat lifted his saxophone and filled the room with his soulful melodies, weaving in and out of the rhythm with ease.

The music was dynamic and full of life, with moments of soft, intimate playing that pulled the audience in closer, followed by powerful, fast-paced improvisations that captivated the crowd. Colina’s fingers moved gracefully over the strings, bringing out deep, resonant tones that complemented Sambeat’s soaring saxophone lines.

Meanwhile, Miralta’s drums added a layer of rhythm and excitement, creating a sound that was both complex and effortless.

The trio played as if they were one, their years of experience together showing in their perfect harmony and instinctive timing. The audience, lost in the music, swayed gently in their seats, tapping their feet, completely absorbed by the performance. As the final notes echoed through the hall, there was a brief moment of silence before the room erupted in applause. Smiles and cheers filled the air, and the guests, now deeply moved, knew they had witnessed something truly special in the ambassador’s elegant home that night.

Earlier, the Spanish ambassador Jose A de Ory welcomed his guests to his home, known for its classical charm.

He informed his guests how he had discovered the musicians in a bar in Spain, and vowed to bring them to Pakistan.Javier Colina, Marc Miralta and Perico Sambeat were in town for the second time and will also be performing in Lahore.

Published in Dawn, September 27th, 2024