OLive Music presents “Lanna Opera: Voice Of The North”, a concert that celebrates identity, friendship and the evolving sound of Thai classical music, at Sala Sudasiri Sobha, Lat Phrao 41 yaek 7-2, on Sunday at 4pm.
This is an afternoon of music and storytelling with Voci Dal Nord, a Chiang Mai-based opera duo whose passion for classical singing has led to this truly special performance.
It marks not only their Bangkok debut but also the launch of their first album, featuring original operatic works written and performed in Thai as well as songs in the northern Lanna dialect.
Winner of Sala Sudasiri Sobha’s Free Stage programme, Voci Dal Nord — comprising Elden Handojo and Worawee Saikhum — brings fresh energy and local identity to Thailand’s classical scene.
Their music bridges European opera traditions with Thai linguistic and cultural expression, creating something rarely heard before — Thai-language opera with northern roots.
Handojo, originally from Jakarta and raised in Thailand, combines his background in khon drama and classical guitar with a deep love for vocal performance. His artistic path took him from the Chiang Mai College of Dramatic Arts to founding Sama Sama Kafe & Studio, a community space where music, creativity and local culture meet.
A Chiang Mai native, Worawee began as a choir singer before developing into a classically trained tenor under the guidance of respected Thai teachers. His warm tone and expressive phrasing have quickly earned him recognition as a rising voice in Thailand’s operatic landscape.
The two singers met during a masterclass two years ago and immediately connected over their shared dream — to make opera accessible and meaningful for Thai audiences.
Together, they started free choral classes at Sama Sama Kafe & Studio, helping young singers find their voices and discover the joy of classical singing.
Their upcoming concert will highlight this journey — from Chiang Mai’s small stages to Sala Sudasiri Sobha, one of Bangkok’s most beautiful concert halls.