A song for Thailand

Published on July 14, 2007

The Asia New Singer Competition being held in Shanghai later this year has captured a record number of entries from Thai crooners eager to win prizes totalling more than Bt100,000.

And there's still time to join, say the local organisers, Ratchapa Music-Monta Performing Arts. Applications are being accepted until tomorrow.

Charn Buntasnakul, a senior member of the organising committee, is pleased with the response, especially since this is the first time the search for new talent has gone nationwide.

The two best vocalists selected from the entries will perform on the Shanghai stage in December, where they'll complete against singers from all over Asia.

"It's a great chance to represent Thailand in this major singing competition and cultural exchange programme. A Thai singer has never won the contest," says Charn.

Applicants should be between 15 and 28 and entries can be in any musical genre.

"They can also compose their own numbers," adds Parichart Chanthai, director of Ratchapa Music.

The screening contest in Thailand is supported by the Culture Ministry, the Mall Group and Thai Airways International. The winner will get Bt50,000 in cash and other gifts. The first runner-up takes home Bt30,000, while the second runner-up getsBt20,000.

The Asia New Singer Competition in Shanghai was initiated by the Culture Ministry of China. It has been held for seven years with 20 countries in the Asian region participating.

"From our experience as an organiser, I believe our representatives will be well-prepared for the tough competition. What makes the Shanghai contest different from others is that the singers are requested to sing one song in their own language.

"It's more than just a singing contest. It's also a cultural exchange among Asian countries," says Susana Tasniyom, one of last year's contestants.

Applications can be downloaded from www.ratchapamusic.com and www.montaart.com. For more information, call (02) 907 8435.