Dhammajarinee Shines in International Music Competition

We are thrilled to share that on October 13th, the DWS band competed in the North Eastern Winds International Festival and came away with two top prizes:

• Silver Prize in the Champion Division (Pianica Concert)

• Excellent Conductor Award for DWS band leader, Tamenatee Khunkam

The North Eastern Winds International Festival in Korat gathers more than 70 bands from Thailand and abroad. Taking place from October 13th–17th under the patronage of HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, this vibrant event features competitions, workshops, and concerts. The DWS students traveled about six hours to take part in this inspiring musical experience. What is remarkable is that Tamenatee just joined DWS in May — meaning the students had just months of learning and practice before the competition.

Click here to watch their performance of “Love Never Dies.” This song by renowned Thai songwriter and music teacher Suraphol Tonawanik is considered one of Thailand’s timeless classics — first recorded in 1961 — and has remained popular ever since.

Click here to watch the students perform “March Blue Spring,” a piece originally written for wind band by Japanese composer Masafumi Suzuki. The work is filled with a sense of hope and brightness, expressing the optimism and freshness of a new beginning in springtime. This experience was deeply meaningful for the students. One said of the event:

“Standing on the stage as representatives of Dhammajarinee Witthaya School at an international event was an invaluable experience for all of us. We felt excited, happy, and proud of ourselves. It encouraged us to express ourselves more confidently and to learn from our mistakes so we can continue to grow. This performance opened our horizons, gave us new experiences, and helped us see our own potential from a new perspective.”

Great congratulations to Tamenatee Khunkam and all the DWS band students for brilliantly representing Dhammajarinee on this international stage! Please enjoy photo highlights below.