On 18 July 2026, Princess Galyani Vadhana Institute of Music (PGVIM) proudly participated in The Royal Variety Performance, a special Thai–British cultural showcase held at the National Theatre in Bangkok. PGVIM Singers, had the honour of performing before Her Royal Highness Princess Anne, The Princess Royal, and Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, during Their Royal Highnesses’ fourth official visit to Thailand. The event marked the celebration of over 170 years of diplomatic relations between Thailand and the United Kingdom.

The performance was organised through the collaboration of the British Council, the British Embassy Bangkok, Thailand’s Ministry of Culture, and the Fine Arts Department, with the aim of promoting cultural diplomacy through the performing arts. The programme featured a rich variety of performances reflecting the shared cultural heritage of both nations, including a classical String Quartet Medley, a staged reading of The King’s Command—a play written by His Majesty King Vajiravudh (Rama VI)—as well as traditional Thai music and dance performances.

For this special occasion, PGVIM Singers joined a quintet comprising alumni of the Princess Galyani Vadhana Institute of Music alongside internationally acclaimed duo r2violincello—Rhys Watkins (violin) and Rowena Calvert (cello). Together, they performed two Thai musical works that celebrate the country’s cultural identity: Mon Son Pha (มอญซ่อนผ้า), inspired by the melody of a beloved traditional children’s game, and Yuan Ya Lao (ยวนย่าเหล), rooted in the lively rhythms of Ram Wong, a traditional Thai social dance symbolising joy, togetherness, and community spirit. Thoughtfully arranged for choir and Western classical instruments, the performances beautifully embodied a harmonious dialogue between Thai musical heritage and the Western classical tradition.

Following the performance, Her Royal Highness Princess Anne graciously met and spoke with the performers, creating a memorable and deeply meaningful moment for all participants. This distinguished opportunity to perform on such a prestigious international occasion represents a significant milestone for the Institute and reflects PGVIM’s ongoing commitment to using music as a bridge between cultures and as a powerful medium for mutual understanding, in keeping with its philosophy: “Music of Life, Music of the Land.”

Photo credit (selected images): British Council Thailand.