ArtSwara and Tohpati are ready to bring back the romance of music in the 80s and 90s through Vintage Sounds

JAKARTA - The ArtSwara performing arts production house (PT Mahhasa Artswara Persada) is preparing to open the 2026 calendar with a full nostalgia.

With a concept that combines the grandeur of an orchestra and the dynamics of a live variety show, the event titled "Vintage Sounds" is scheduled to hit the stage at Ciputra Artpreneur, South Jakarta on February 17.

Vintage Sounds is a personal dedication born from the childhood memories of the executive producer and event initiator, Maera, who wants to take the audience back to the golden age of Indonesian pop music, which has been the background of many families in the country.

"My Vintage Sounds is a form of love and respect for my parents. The songs I bring are their favorite music that is part of our family memories," said Maera in an official statement, Thursday, February 5.

The repertoire that will be presented is the result of an in-depth curation that represents the color of Indonesian music at the time, such as "Selamat Datang Cinta", "Aku Cinta Kepadamu", "Bimbang", to "Asmaraku Asmaramu" will be repackaged.

"Through this performance, I want to revive the music of the 80s-90s with new arrangements without losing its original spirit, while presenting it as a shared experience across generations," added Maera.

To realize this musical ambition, ArtSwara collaborates with Tohpati who will lead the Tohpati Orchestra in presenting a magnificent big band format arrangement but still has a groovy feel.

"This is the first time I have accompanied several segments in the format of a variety show. This is a new experience because I have to choose and arrange music that is suitable for a diverse performance format like this," said the musician, who is familiarly called Bontot.

The main strength of this event lies in the collaboration across genres and generations. Indonesian rap icon, Iwa K, is sure to give a unique contrast on stage.

In addition, singer and dancer Galabby along with sand painter Vina Candrawati will also enliven the atmosphere. Galabby is scheduled to perform singing and dancing in the song "Asmaraku Asmaramu" with the ArtSwara ensemble.

"I can't wait and it's really fun to bring old songs with new arrangements, especially to be able to perform with my fellow comrades, Vina," said Galabby. "The performers who join are definitely not boring."

As additional information for lovers of musical theater, Maera also revealed that ArtSwara's masterpiece, the Musical MAR, will be staged again in mid-May 2026.

Interestingly, tickets for the MAR Musical can be purchased at the same time as the "Vintage Sounds" performance through the official website artswara.co.id.

The steps of ArtSwara seem to confirm their position since their establishment in 2009 as pioneers of musical dramas in Indonesia who not only pursue entertainment aspects, but also cultural preservation and education for the wider community.