National Artist Manrat Srikaranonda, a household name in Thailand's music circles with many all-time favourites to his credit, died yesterday. He was 90.
Manrat: Taught music to royalty
Manrat passed away peacefully at his home in Bang Kapi district of Bangkok. Manrat was one of the country's greatest musicians and composers. Many of his songs have become classics, such as Rak Oey (Oh Love), Jai Oey (Oh Heart), Jab Poo Dam (Catching the Crab), Jak Yod Doy (From the Mountaintop), Krai Oey (Who Is It?) and Rak Luang (Deceptive Love), which most Thais over 40 know by heart.
He was also a member of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej's music band Or Sor Wansook, as well as a pioneering teacher of music arrangement. "Ajarn Manrat'', as he was affectionately called by fellow musicians, was honoured with the prestigious title of National Artist in 1992. A Thai jazz pioneer, Manrat was also a music teacher to the prince and princesses during their childhoods. Manrat founded the Faculty of Music, Silpakorn University, where he was a special lecturer.
Manrat, a name royally-bestowed by the late King, was born Reimondo Amato de Sequeira on Aug 25, 1928 to a Portuguese father, Reinaldo Maria de Sequeira who was also a musician.
He is survived by his wife, La-orwan, and their son and daughter. A funeral Mass will be held from today until Sept 10 at the Holy Redeemer Church in Soi Ruam Rudee.
