Houli Tourism Week: A Thousand Saxophonists Unite to Break a World Record

By Chi Bing-hui, compiled and reported

From August 1st to 7th is “Houli Tourism Week,” which includes exhibitions of local specialty products, prize quiz activities, and free shuttle buses provided daily. The highlight of the event is the “2011 Taichung Jazz Festival – Houli Musical Instrument Carnival” held at Houli Horse Ranch on August 6th and 7th. On the afternoon of the 7th, a grand performance by a thousand saxophonists will attempt to break a Guinness World Record, aiming to let the world hear Taichung and see Taiwan as the nation celebrates its 100th founding anniversary.

The Tourism Bureau stated that the annual Taichung Jazz Festival, which attracts attention from all sectors, has been expanded into the Houli Musical Instrument Carnival following the merger of counties and cities. On August 6th and 7th, additional shuttle buses will depart from Houli Horse Ranch at 8:45 AM, connecting major attractions such as Tai’an Service Station, Zhongshe Sightseeing Flower Market, Saxophone Player’s Museum, Yue Mei Sightseeing Sugar Factory, and Yue Mei Amusement World. This allows visitors to explore Houli without driving and experience the local culture and scenery.

During the tourism week, visitors entering Yue Mei Amusement World after 2 PM can enjoy discounts such as one free entry for every ten people at Marlboro Bay, and full access to the Exploration Land for just NT$399. With event coupons, you can also get 20% off at Songhe Agricultural Product Winery, half-price flower viewing tickets at Zhongshe Sightseeing Flower Market plus a small potted plant, a commemorative train ticket per person for stays or meals at Shin-Kansen Train Station, and group ticket discounts for the Elephant Big Top Circus.

Over half of the world’s saxophones are produced in Houli, Taichung. In 2008, the Taichung City Government set a record with 918 people playing the saxophone together. However, in May this year, Australia gathered 940 saxophonists to perform simultaneously, setting a new record. Therefore, the organizing body, the Cultural Affairs Bureau, is going all out to gather numerous saxophonists on the afternoon of August 7th at Houli Horse Ranch to perform three songs in jazz style: the national anthem, “Four Seasons Red,” and “What a Wonderful World.” Interested participants can register via the event’s official website (http://www.taichungjazz2011.com.tw).