Jovan Maljokovic is a famous Belgrade saxophone player, composer and arranger. His Balkan Salsa Band has existed for almost fifteen years, representing Serbia at many festivals throughout Europe and Cuba. In the last few years they have performed at Rottweil Jazz Festival (Germany), Festivals of Cultures in Luxembourg and Vienna, Django Reinhardt International Jazz Festival in Samois, Montreux Jazz Festival, etc. Jovan Maljokovic Balkan Salsa Band has performed in Athens, representing Serbia at the Olympic Games 2004.
Maljokovic is the founder and art director of one of the most important festivals in Serbia – Valjevo Jazz Fest. This festival is known for hosting top domestic jazz artists.
From the very beginning, as a composer, arranger and player, Maljokovic has used Balkan folk music for his jazz compositions.
So far he has had ten CDs released.
“Ethno music is a precious way of communication among various cultures. It is an opportunity for people all over the world to understand one another much better. As every region has its special cuisine, it also has its special musical salsa,” said Maljokovic in an interview. “Maybe you won’t like it - it could be too sweet, too bitter or too hot for you…still, if you are a little bit curious, you have to taste it…”
Jovan’s program is called BALKAN SALSA, so – be prepared for a pleasant surprise!