PRINCESS GALYANI VADHANA & MUSIC

“On ne peut atteindre ni à l’art ni à la sagesse si l’on ne s’est pas adonné à leur étude” (One cannot attain art or wisdom if one has not devoted oneself to their study) – a quote by Democritus, was one of Her Royal Highness Princess Galyani Vadhana Krom Luang Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra’s favourite quotes, which summarizes who she was. 

Her Royal Highness Princess Galyani Vadhana Krom Luang Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra passed away in 2008, leaving behind a legacy that is still strongly felt in Thai society. Her lifelong learning philosophy focused on promoting education, social work, healthcare, liberal arts, and cultural activities. Her love of classical music was also evident, as she became Thailand's greatest supporter of classical music development. 

Born in London on May 6, 1923, Princess Galyani Vadhana was the elder sister of two late kings of Thailand, King Ananthamahidon Phra Atthamaramathibodin and King Bhumibol the Great. She was exposed to classical music at a young age, which led to her deep understanding of the art form. 

Her Royal Highness attended classical music performances to support classical musicians and organizations when she was able. In 2000, she donated her personal budget to support music learning for youth, which later became the Fund for Classical Music Promotion Under the Patronage of HRH Princess Galyani Vadhana. This funding has been instrumental in developing young Thai classical musicians who play important roles in raising the standard of Thai classical music today. 

The Princess Galyani Vadhana Institute of Music was established to continue Her Royal Highness’ vision of promoting classical music and making it sustainable in the Thai context, as well as to pay tribute to her lifelong dedication to the arts and education. 

In 2022, Her Royal Highness Princess Galyani Vadhana has been honored by UNESCO as one of the most distinguished and influential people in the world, on the occasion of her 100th anniversary. She was recognized for her lifelong dedication to the arts and education, as well as her contribution to the development of classical music in Thailand. The Princess was also a strong advocate for social work, healthcare, and cultural activities, and her legacy continues to inspire the Thai people today.

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For more information about Her Royal Highness, please see the links below.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galyani_Vadhana 

https://www.posn.or.th/en/royal-history-en 

https://www.soravij.com/royalty/galyani/galyani.html 

https://thaiembdc.org/2022/07/26/unesco-its-eminent-persons-list/