The Lao National Culture Hall was packed on 19 September, with more than 1,000 people turning up dressed for an evening of Lao music with a difference.
Events like this are still relatively rare in Laos. On stage, more than 40 musicians played 10 well-known Lao classical songs, rearranged for an orchestra by Master Alounyadeth Ratsahody.
For the Lao audience, the melodies were familiar. Heard through an orchestra, they had a new sound, but also brought back memories of songs they grew up with.
Hosted by The Pianist Vientiane, the “A Symphony of Heritage” charity concert also featured Swiss violinist Mathias Boegner, who performed a solo combining Western classical music with Lao musical traditions, including the khaen, Laos’ traditional mouth organ.
The evening also featured Swiss violinist Mathias Boegner, who performed a solo blending Western classical music with Lao musical heritage, including the khaen, Laos’ traditional mouth organ.
With the theatre full the concert offered a rare opportunity to experience Lao traditional music in an orchestral setting.
Proceeds from ticket sales and sponsorships will go toward buying new musical instruments for students at the National College of Arts, giving them more opportunities for hands-on practice and supporting the next generation of Lao musicians and artists.
The Pianist Vientiane thanked its partners, sponsors and audience members for supporting the concert and its contribution to arts and cultural education in Laos.
