On 26 September 2022, on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of
the establishment of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Poland, the Department of European Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs organized
a classical music concert by Thai and Polish musicians and the MU Choir, featuring music compositions by the legendary Polish musician, Frederic Chopin, and a song based on the work of Sunthorn Phu, Thailand’s distinguished Royal poet, at the College of Music, Mahidol University.

Five performances of the concert were as follows: (1), Chopin’s Nocturne Op. 48 No.1, a piano recital performed by Dr. Rit Subsomboon,
a professor of the Conducting and Ensemble Department; (2) Chopin’s Polonaise Op.53, a piano recital performed by Mr. San Jittakarn,
a distinguished pianist from Mahidol Music Academy; (3) Chopin’s Largo from Cello Sonata Op.65, a piano and cello duet performed by
Dr. Supsomboon and Mr. Marcin Szawelski, a Polish professor of the String and Chamber Music Department; (4) Chopin’s Song, “Wisona” performed by the MU Choir and conducted by Dr. Subsomboon; and (5) Thai Song, “Kam Man Sanya” or “Promise”, based on Sunthorn Phu’s poem, performed by the MU Choir conducted by Dr. Subsomboon and accompanied by Mr. Szawelski.

The concert in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Poland used soft diplomacy through music which is a universal language and also within Poland’s expertise. Participation of both Thai and Polish artists, including the selection of Polish and Thai compositions, not only reflected the close and cordial ties between the two countries and between their peoples,
but also deepen cooperation in the field of music between Thailand and Poland.

Notably, Mr. Jittakarn was the first Thai pianist to represent Thailand in the 18th International Chopin Piano Competition 2021 held in Warsaw, Poland. In addition, Dr. Subsomboon was the first Thai pianist to compete in the International Frederic Chopin Piano Competition for Amateur Pianists 2021 in Warsaw. On 14 November 2021, both pianists also performed online recitals on the occasion of Poland’s National Day.