Khlong Toey Music Program – Thailand
Numerous musicians, artists and peace lovers from all over the world converged in Bangkok Saturday, June 6th. Nine PFCF Nepali student/musicians including the now famous Nayan Band and administrator Ishor Bajracharya flew in from Kathmandu for their first time in Thailand. Most of these folks have never been outside of their country before. Their excitement level was at an all-time high even as they were hit by unprecedented heat and Bangkok’s notorious jam jam. Our Nepali team was overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support from the Thai people.
Rehearsals were immediate and the connection between the Thai and the Nepali students was profound. There was an amazing cultural exchange and soon everybody learned that connecting through music made fast friendships easy. Three benefit concerts were held during the week and the main event featured nonstop outstanding performances by both Thai and Nepali artists from 2 PM till 8 PM. We are proud to announce nearly $3000 was donated towards bringing relief to earthquake victims in Nepal. The funds were utilized to purchase and install 25 transitional shelters for desperate families in need outside of Bhaktapur, Nepal. The Nayan Band, Wayu and others performed for the Nepali villagers bringing them together for the first time since the earthquake. It was a healing that touched everyone.
On behalf of PFCF and our Nepali brothers and sisters, we deeply thank Aom Am, Gigi and their incredible team for making this event a reality. And a very special shout out goes to superheroes Maurie and Vivien who sponsored the big surprise of the appearance of PFC Master singer Clarence Bekker. He absolutely enthralled the crowd with his rousing performance of the Beatles classic track “HELP.” Clarence also graciously led a very effective vocal workshop for both the Thai and Nepali students.
For me personally, I have never experienced an event where there was so much deep concern for their fellow man. It’s still sharp in my mind that as our dear Thai friend Atom spoke to the crowd about the heartbreaking conditions in Nepal – he openly wept. One doesn’t usually see displays like that at a concert. The crowd was noticeably moved and although we may have language barriers, there was none when it came to the compassionate heart. This is PFCF in action my friends. Thank you for believing in us.
Onward and upward,