WRITER: THE AU LIBRARY
On April 1, 2025, Assumption University of Thailand (AU), in collaboration with the Bangkok Opera Foundation, proudly hosted the Thailand premiere of Claudio Monteverdi’s revered masterpiece, “Vespro della Beata Vergine” (Vespers for the Blessed Virgin), SV 206. Conducted by Thailand’s National Artist, Maestro Somtow Sucharitkul, once referred to by the International Herald Tribune as “the most well-known expatriate Thai in the world,” who has returned to Thailand after decades of international acclaim as an award-winning novelist and composer of operas, the event was held at the exquisite Saint Louis Marie de Montfort Chapel, Suvarnabhumi Campus.
Published in Venice in 1610 and dedicated to Pope Paul V, Monteverdi’s “Vespro della Beata Vergine” is a celebrated musical setting of the evening vespers for Marian feasts. Sung entirely in Latin, the composition showcases a stunning blend of solo voices, choirs, and orchestra, skillfully integrating Renaissance and Baroque styles. The performance at AU honored the original sacred intent of the piece, delivering a spiritually profound experience.
The landmark concert featured exceptional musicians from the Bangkok Opera Foundation, including Opera Siam, the Siam Philharmonic Orchestra, and the youth ensemble Siam Sinfonietta. Adding a uniquely AU touch, the talented choir and students from the Louis Nobiron School of Music of AU delivered powerful and moving performances that beautifully captured the spiritual and emotional depth of Monteverdi’s masterpiece. AU’s own distinguished faculty members, including renowned early music specialists Asst. Prof. Jacopo Gianninoto on lute and Asst. Prof. Alberto Firrincieli on harpsichord and organ provided additional authenticity and richness to the evening.