CulturalFest Countdown: Meet Ornwipa Thamsuwan

Ornwipa Thamsuwan will perform Thai classical music from a period when such music was banned on the Khim (hammered-dulcimer).

How did you begin as a performer? Tell us a little bit of your story.

My non-musician family supported me to learn Thai instruments in school and my teachers encouraged me to perform frequently during the 1990s. Nowadays I do background music as part of the "Chaopraya Ensemble".

How did you begin as a performer? Tell us a little bit of your story.

My non-musician family supported me to learn Thai instruments in school and my teachers encouraged me to perform frequently during the 1990s. Nowadays I do background music as part of the "Chaopraya Ensemble".

What do you hope the audience will take away from your performance? What do you hope they will learn about the culture(s) that your performance represents?

Ornwipa (center) performing in an ensemble at a Thai temple

The theme of the song Saenkhamneung is "I fight through music".  The history of the song date back in 1940s, when Thai dictator tried to modernize the country to protect the nation from westerners and, therefore, banned Thai classical music. Teacher Luangpraditpairoh composed a song this song to protest against the government. This song represents the heart of Thai people who try to preserve and share cultures. Like a tree can withstand strong wind with its roots, the composer Luangpraditpairoh taught us that our nation can withstand the outside forces if we are strong; for that to happen, we must honor our heritage regardless of what we are to become.

Is there anything else you would like people to know about your performance?

Thai people love of our nation. Thailand has a unique culture, barely touched by occidental countries because we have never been colonized.

CulturalFest Ticket Information:

General admission tickets are on sale now for $15 online. Discounted student tickets will be available for $10 in advance at the FIUTS office (HUB 206) or at Wednesday Lunch. Tickets will also be available at the door for $15.

Click here to buy your tickets today! And don't forget that CulturalFest is much more than just the Performance Showcase. Join us for free cultural activities and more at the International Expo on Thursday, February 12, and support FIUTS programs at the Reception and Silent Auction before the performances.