National artist Manrat Srikaranonda has died of natural causes. He was 90.
His family informed Pimrawee Wattanawarangkun, the Cultural Promotion Department director-general, of the death on Wednesday.
Manrat died at his house in Wang Thonglang district, the official said.
A ceremony will be held at Holy Redeemer Church in Soi Ruam Rudee from Friday to Monday at 7pm.
The funeral will be held at the Santikham cemetery in Sam Phran district of Nakhon Pathom on Tuesday.
Manrat Srikaranonda plays the piano while Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn sings Rak Oey (Oh Love), one of his most famous songs, in 2016. (Photo by Sanitsuda Ekachai)
Manrat was a jazz pioneer and renowned music arranger. He was a member of the royal Or Sor Wansook band formed by His Majesty the late King Bhumibol.
On his 86th birthday on Aug 25, 2014, he took to the stage at a charity concert, playing the piano and singing Ma! She’s Making Eyes at Me, despite his poor health.
He also played King Bhumibol's composition Love at Sundown with Father Yuthana Sriprapha of Ruamrudee International School, much to the delight of the audience.
He composed several songs that have become national 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).
from T 3D YouTube
