Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

1952 in Bangkok, Thailand

 

Somtow Sucharitkul is a renowned classical music composer, conductor, and author. He was born on August 2, 1952, in Bangkok, Thailand, to a Thai mother and an American father. His father was a diplomat, and Somtow spent his childhood traveling around the world, living in various countries such as Cambodia, Laos, and the United States. Somtow's interest in music began at a young age. He started playing the piano when he was four years old and began composing music when he was just six. He was also interested in writing and published his first short story when he was 13. In 1969, Somtow moved to the United States to attend Eton College in England. He later studied at Cambridge University, where he earned a degree in music. During his time in England, Somtow became interested in opera and began composing his own works. In 1974, Somtow returned to Thailand and founded the Bangkok Opera Company. He composed several operas for the company, including "Madana," "The Silent Prince," and "Mae Naak." His operas were well-received and helped to establish a new tradition of classical music in Thailand. Somtow's music is known for its fusion of Western and Eastern musical traditions. He often incorporates Thai musical elements into his compositions, such as the use of traditional Thai instruments like the ranat ek and the khong wong yai. His music is also characterized by its emotional intensity and dramatic flair. In addition to his work as a composer, Somtow is also a conductor. He has conducted orchestras around the world, including the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in London and the Bangkok Symphony Orchestra. He is known for his dynamic conducting style and his ability to bring out the best in his musicians. Somtow has composed music for a variety of mediums, including opera, ballet, and film. His film scores include "The House of the Yellow Carpet" and "The Laughing Dead." He has also written several books, including the science fiction novel "Jasmine Nights" and the memoir "The Siam Renaissance." One of Somtow's most famous works is his opera "The Silent Prince." The opera tells the story of a young prince who is born without the ability to speak. The prince's father, the king, is ashamed of his son and banishes him from the kingdom. The prince goes on a journey of self-discovery and eventually finds his voice. The opera is a powerful exploration of the themes of identity and self-acceptance. Another notable work by Somtow is his ballet "The Firebird." The ballet is based on the Russian fairy tale of the same name and tells the story of a magical bird that helps a prince rescue a princess from an evil sorcerer. Somtow's score for the ballet is a masterful blend of Western and Eastern musical traditions, and the ballet has been performed by companies around the world. Somtow has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to classical music. In 2001, he was awarded the Silpathorn Award by the Thai government for his contributions to the arts. He has also been awarded the Order of the White Elephant, one of Thailand's highest honors. In addition to his work as a composer and conductor, Somtow is also a passionate advocate for the arts. He has founded several organizations to promote classical music in Thailand, including the Siam Philharmonic Orchestra and the Bangkok Opera Foundation. He is also a frequent speaker and lecturer on the subject of classical music and its role in society.

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