From 29 January to 1 February 2026, the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Khon Kaen University (KKU), specifically the Western Music Programme, Department of Music, organised the “Music Tour” Project for the fiscal year 2026. Assistant Professor Kritsada Wongkamjan, Ph.D., served as the head of the delegation, which included faculty members from the Western Music Programme and 45 students. The activities took place at the National School of Arts in Vientiane Capital, Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR).
The project’s objectives were to produce graduates with high-level musical performance capacity, encourage students to continually showcase their talents to the public, and create learning experiences within an international context, thereby elevating academic and professional standards in the field of music.
Assistant Professor Kritsada Wongkamjan, Ph.D., Project Chair of the Music Tour at the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, stated: “The Music Tour project stands as a crucial platform that provides students with the real-world opportunity to develop their musical performance capabilities. They learn to collaborate with international institutions and engage in academic knowledge exchange. This is a vital starting point for developing the skills and professional experience of new-generation musicians, helping to build confidence, professional discipline, and international working skills, which are fundamental cornerstones for becoming professional musicians in the future.”
Assistant Professor Phajon Peebung, Ph.D., Chair of the Western Music Programme and Project Co-Chair, further stated: “The Music Tour project integrates various activities, including music performances by the KKU Band, academic exchanges on music, and programme advertisement for the Department of Music. This design allows students to develop the necessary skills for professional musicians, alongside public performances that boost confidence, professional discipline, and an understanding of their roles. I must stress that music students are a key force that will propel the nation’s musical arts and culture onto the world stage. Every performance, every activity, is a valuable accumulation of experience. I wish all participants continued enjoyment in this learning journey and hope they grow alongside our Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts.”
Assistant Professor Pornpan Kaenamornphan, Ph.D., Chair of the Master of Arts Programme in Music Therapy, commented: “Participating in this project allowed me to learn about international teamwork, exchange views with musicians from Lao PDR, and observe performance culture in a foreign context, including stage demeanour on an international platform and cross-cultural communication skills. I intend to utilise the knowledge and experience gained to further develop my teaching and learning practices.”
The activities included music performances, academic exchanges, and public outreach events, such as a musical performance by the KKU Band at the National School of Arts, academic exchange activities, programme advertisements for the Western Music major, and concluding with a public performance at the activity area along the Mekong River in Vientiane Capital, effectively showcasing the students’ musical performance potential on an international stage.
