A Scene from Somtow’s ballet Suriyothai, composed for and dedicated to HM Queen Sirikit
Thailand National Artist Somtow Sucharitkul has announced that for one full year, opera productions, concerts, and all activities by Opera Siam and its numerous ensembles will be dedicated to the memory of Her Majesty the Queen Mother. This initiative will honor her enduring legacy and profound impact on Thailand’s cultural landscape.
Her Majesty, a passionate lover of classical music, was a remarkable patron of the arts. As a young woman, she studied to become a concert pianist, a testament to her deep connection with music. Before she became Queen, she fell in love with the young King of Thailand, dedicating her life to supporting him and serving her country. Throughout her reign, Her Majesty left an unparalleled legacy of elegance, grace, and culture that significantly reshaped how Thailand was perceived by the international community.
“I feel that the best way to honor Her Majesty’s memory over this year-long mourning period is by filling it with as much beautiful music as possible,” said Somtow. “We will be programming works that are connected to Her Majesty, including pieces from composers she herself told me were among her favorites.”
Opera Siam will kick off this monumental tribute with a concert in the state-of-the-art Great Hall of King’s International School Bangkok, marking the beginning of an exciting collaboration that promises to position this venue as a new hub for performing arts in the region. The concert will begin with Rachmaninov’s beautiful Vocalise, sung by one of Thailand’s leading sopranos, Barbara Zion. Following this, music from Star Wars will take center stage, before the evening culminates with a powerful rendition of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, performed by four choirs and four international soloists. The Ninth Symphony will be a highlight, as it serves as a universal hymn of brotherhood, a fitting tribute for such an occasion.
As part of the year-long tribute, performances at King’s International School will include fully staged operas such as Somtow’s The Silent Prince and Gluck’s Orfeo, as well as ballet productions like Petrushka. Other events will feature the Thailand premieres of major symphonic works and special performances for young people to encourage the next generation’s engagement with classical music.
In February, a major milestone will take place with the revival of Somtow’s most popular opera, Mae Naak, at the Thailand Cultural Center. Another concert will feature a special performance of his Queen Sirikit Concerto, commissioned by HRH Princess Galyani Vadhana to honor HM Queen Sirikit’s Sixth Cycle.
“Mae Naak, a ghost story, and Orfeo, an ancient myth, are both stories of love transcending death,” said Somtow. “Her Majesty graciously attended and encouraged our opera performances over the years, and these works continue to evoke deep emotional resonance.”
Opera Siam is also planning other performances centered around themes of love, womanhood, and Thai culture. Each event will be an opportunity to reflect on Her Majesty’s legacy, but also to dream of a brighter future for Thailand. Somtow added, “The Thai royal family has had a tremendous impact on the country’s musical appreciation, and Her Majesty’s influence remains a vibrant part of our cultural fabric.”
A Legacy of Music and Culture
Somtow Sucharitkul receives flowers from HM Queen Sirikit on the occasion of the world premiere of the Sirikit Concerto
The influence of Her Majesty the Queen Mother on Thailand’s cultural and musical landscape is immeasurable. From her dedication to classical music to her deep love of the arts, she played a pivotal role in shaping Thailand’s modern identity on the global stage. Through Opera Siam’s dedication to this one-year tribute, her legacy will continue to inspire artists, musicians, and audiences alike.
Discover More About Opera Siam and Somtow Sucharitkul
Opera Siam’s mission is to bring the finest classical music and opera productions to Thailand, blending the rich history of Western music with the unique flavors of Thai culture. Somtow Sucharitkul, an internationally recognized composer, conductor, and National Artist of Thailand, leads Opera Siam with a vision of making Thailand a global hub for opera and classical music. Somtow has received acclaim for his operas, symphonic compositions, and his commitment to nurturing young talent in the arts.
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Join the Tribute and Celebrate Music with Us
Opera Siam invites all music lovers, art enthusiasts, and those who wish to honor the memory of Her Majesty the Queen Mother to join us throughout this incredible year of music and celebration. Whether you are attending a concert at King’s International School Bangkok, experiencing a major opera production, or participating in one of our educational initiatives, your presence will contribute to a beautiful celebration of life, culture, and music.
Don’t miss out on these once-in-a-lifetime performances. Get your tickets today and become a part of this unforgettable tribute to a beloved monarch. Together, let us carry forward the legacy of Her Majesty the Queen Mother through the power of music.
