The Nation (Thailand), July 1 2004

Midori wows Thailand with music and heart
By THANONG KHANTHONG

World renowned violinist Midori not only impressed Thai audiences this week with her dazzling technique and profound interpretations, but she also took time to help a number of promising local musicians.

Midori, whose Bangkok tour ended yesterday, undertook a demanding concert program which included the beautiful violin and piano pieces of such masters as Mozart, Ravel and Goehr.

With Peter Vinograde accompanying her on piano, the 32-year-old delivered a smooth encore rendition of "Bua Khao" (White Lotus), composed by ML Phuangroi Sanitwongse Na Ayutthaya.

Yesterday, she performed a special concert program at a small auditorium at the ThaiJapan Cultural Centre for students and their teachers, before conducting a master class and private lessons for a select group of young
Thai violinists. ...

"Midori came to perform her concert for us without charging any fee. She came with her love. She does not want to go anywhere or visit any places, she says she would like to spend her time with young Thais," said Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, vice president of Toshiba Thailand, one of the sponsors of the Midori concert.

After finishing her concert at 3pm, she held the master class until 10pm. Her energy was unbelievable.

Playing before Midori in the master class were Anna Sowanna, 12, who played Haydn's Violin Concerto in C Major; Nonthaphat Wonvejviwat, 12, who performed Beriat's Violin Concerto in A Minor; and Khanin Udommana, 17, who delivered Bruch's Violin Concerto No 1 in G Minor. ...

Midori offered private lessons for Sareewan Wathawattana, 17, Phongphan Angkhasuphon, 19 - who played Lalo's Symphonie Espagnole - and Chanaphol Phuapattanakul, 16, who performed Kreisler's Preludium and Allegro.

Vinograde also offered a master class for a group of Thai piano students.