Legendary Malaysian Jazz Family, The Solianos Performed at Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast for Jazz & Blues Tribute Series

Featuring live performances and the donation of a rare musical score by Alfonso Soliano

Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast honored the musical legacy of Malaysia’s iconic jazz family, The Solianos, during the Jazz & Blues Tribute Series held on April 25 and 26, 2025. The event, held in celebration of International Jazz Day, showcased Malaysia’s significant influence on the global jazz scene.

The Solianos, celebrated for their generations-spanning impact on Malaysian music, took the stage for a special live performance together with Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast’s resident band, Ground Breaker. Attendees enjoyed a memorable evening filled with classic jazz and blues, highlighting the family's lasting musical brilliance.

A highlight of the celebration was the heartfelt donation of a rare handwritten musical score by the late Alfonso Soliano, gifted by The Solianos to Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast. The piece, titled "Blues in Bangkok," was composed on original Orkes Radio Malaysia manuscript paper and served as Alfonso’s signature opening number at the Cat’s Eye Bar in Bangkok’s President Hotel back in 1967.

Adding to the significance of the moment, the Merican family contributed a commemorative poster of Alfonso Soliano to mark the 100th birth anniversary of Tan Sri Ahmad Merican, another legendary figure in Malaysia’s music history.

Both memorabilia items were officially presented during a special Coffee Talk session, where members of The Solianos shared heartfelt stories about their family’s legacy and Alfonso Soliano’s influential role in shaping Malaysian jazz.

“We are honored to receive this meaningful donation from The Solianos. Their contribution reflects not only a deep personal legacy but also Malaysia’s broader musical heritage," said Murray Aitken, General Manager of Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast and Area Vice President of Hotel Operations (Asia). "We are proud to have this historic piece join our collection and to continue celebrating the impact of music legends, both internationally and locally."

The tribute series drew an enthusiastic crowd, including hotel guests and media members, who came to enjoy the live performances and witness the historic memorabilia handover. The donated score and commemorative poster are now proudly on permanent display at Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast, joining the hotel’s iconic collection, which also features items from global stars like Rihanna as well as local legends such as Amy Search and Yuna.