Meet the Musicians

โรงเรียนวังไกลกังวล ในพระบรมราชูปถัมภ์

The Wang Klai Kang Won Palace School Big Band under the Royal Patronage of His Majesty the King will kindly be performing during the festival's Opening ceremony.

วงชื่อผลิใบ Moradok-Mai Plibai

From Moradok-Mai Plibai is a group of young musicians who have grown up in a theater community. They have been immersed in traditional Thai music, dance and theatre, as well as Western music and theater. Each member can play both traditional and Western instruments and they have developed their skills in acting through their theater education.

The Moradokmai community and Homeschool, founded by Mr. Janaprakal Chandruang, a respected drama professor and National Artist, is located in Pathum Thani, Thailand. The learning process begins early in the morning, with the young artists practicing music, dance, singing and theater every day. The goal is to help them discover their talents and develop skills in all areas. They are encouraged to think independently, be disciplined and support themselves and others.

The band is the result of this nurturing environment, where young artists are encouraged to grow and explore their potential. Their ultimate goal is to honor and continue the Thai tradition. They have been getting more and more recognition from audiences worldwide following performances in the US and across Europe.

Ajarn Nipon Wansripech

Ajarn Nipon Wansripech is a highly respected traditional Thai musician and music educator known for his mastery of classical Thai instruments and his deep understanding of Thai music traditions. As a skilled practitioner of the khong wong (Thai gong circle), ranat (Thai xylophone), and phin (Thai lute), his performances are rich in cultural heritage and musical authenticity. Having spent many years studying and practicing traditional Thai music, Nipon has dedicated his life to preserving and sharing the intricate art forms of Thai classical music with younger generations. Nipon is not only an accomplished performer but also a passionate teacher who has contributed to the development of traditional Thai music education across Thailand. He regularly conducts workshops, classes and lectures, inspiring students to explore the beauty and complexity of Thai musical instruments and composition. Throughout his career, Nipon has collaborated with numerous prominent musicians and groups, and he is currently a key member of the Hua Hin Young Chronicles, a band known for blending traditional Thai music with modern jazz influences. During the Hua Hin International Jazz Festival, Nipon will perform both solo and alongside Kru Mink, offering a unique fusion of traditional Thai sounds with contemporary jazz elements, enriching the cultural landscape of the festival.

Kru Mink Snow (Junkaphor Phoopairoth)

Mink Snow is a highly accomplished jazz vocalist and musician with a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Vocals from Silpakorn University, class of 2012. Over the years, she has built a distinguished career as both a performer and educator, with notable performances at renowned events such as the Chiang Mai Jazz Festival (2017 & 2019), the Wonderfruit Festival (2017), Pai Jazz and Blues Fest (2017 & 2018) and the Thailand International Jazz Conference (2020 & 2024). Her powerful voice and captivating stage presence have made her a sought-after performer at jazz and music festivals across Thailand.

In addition to her performance career, Kru Mink is the lead singer of the popular jazz fusion band Saint Cat, based in Hua Hin. She is also an active music teacher, sharing her passion and expertise with the next generation of musicians. Her discography includes her original album DVAAR with PaPaPao, as well as five singles.

Kru Mink’s commitment to both her craft and her students has solidified her place as a respected figure in the Thai music scene. During the festival she will perform with Saint Cat, solo performances and alongside renowned musician Ajarn Nipon.

Saint Cat

Saint Cat is a talented jazz fusion band based in Hua Hin, known for their innovative blend of classic jazz with modern, experimental sounds. Their performances are marked by technical skill, improvisational energy and a passion for pushing creative boundaries. In 2024, Saint Cat gained national recognition by performing at the prestigious Thailand International Jazz Conference (TIJC), showcasing their artistry alongside top musicians in the region. Locally, they are well-loved for their regular appearances at Amara Resort in Hua Hin where they’ve built a loyal fanbase.

Their sound merges traditional jazz foundations with elements of funk, soul, and contemporary rhythms, creating dynamic and engaging live experiences that appeal to both jazz purists and younger audiences. Each performance is a journey through intricate melodies and bold improvisation. Beyond the stage, Saint Cat contributes to Hua Hin’s growing reputation as a jazz hub, supporting local music culture and inspiring emerging talent. Their dedication positions them as both performers and ambassadors for Hua Hin’s vibrant jazz scene.

The Hua Hin Young Chronicles

The Hua Hin Young Chronicles is an innovative jazz ensemble formed to showcase the dynamic talent emerging from Thailand’s coastal arts hub. Fusing contemporary jazz with traditional Thai musical influences, the group represents a new generation of cross-cultural artistry. In 2024, they gained international recognition by performing at the prestigious Moscow Jazz Festival under the banner “Jazz Without Borders.” Their lineup includes nine gifted young musicians — vocalists, instrumentalists and a sound engineer — each contributing unique flair and technical skill. The band is proudly supported by Hua Hin’s vibrant music community and has been nurtured by mentors including renowned local musicians and educators. With members ranging from conservatory-trained instrumentalists to self-taught prodigies, the Hua Hin Young Chronicles reflects both artistic discipline and creative freedom. Their performances are a celebration of jazz as a global language, weaving soulful improvisation, rhythmic complexity and melodies rooted in Southeast Asian heritage. They regularly collaborate with schools and youth projects, inspiring the next wave of Thai musicians. Already recognized as cultural ambassadors, The Hua Hin Young Chronicles aim to continue expanding their presence on international stages, representing Thailand’s growing influence in the global jazz scene.

Siam Cubano

Siam Cubano is a dynamic nine-piece jazz fusion band based in Bangkok, Thailand, celebrated for blending vibrant Latin rhythms with contemporary jazz. Established over a decade ago, the band draws from salsa, merengue and bachata traditions, delivering energetic, danceable performances inspired by icons such as Gloria Estefan, Poncho Sanchez, and Tito Nieves. The band has become a staple in Bangkok’s live music scene, performing regularly at top venues like the Saxophone Pub & Restaurant and Flamenco. Their shows are known for infectious rhythms, powerful brass sections and crowd engagement, making them a favorite among both jazz lovers and the Latin dance community. Led by a team of experienced musicians and educators, Siam Cubano’s lineup features standout vocalists and skilled instrumentalists who consistently deliver both technical brilliance and dynamic showmanship. The group is also actively involved in nurturing Bangkok’s growing Latin dance culture through collaborations with dance schools and event organizers. With a strong following in Thailand and aspirations for broader recognition across Southeast Asia, Siam Cubano continues to promote Latin jazz fusion as a joyful, multicultural musical experience. They proudly represent the diversity and global spirit of Thailand’s music scene.