SAM SAOMEK “A GREAT MERCY” ALBUM RELEASE CONCERT
March 21, 2026 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Sam Saomek Srithongkum is a multigenre Thai pianist and composer based in Boston whose work bridges jazz, contemporary classical music, world traditions, and gospel influences. Known for his expressive touch and vivid harmonic imagination, he has collaborated with numerous award-winning and Grammy-nominated artists, including Christylez Bacon, Jamey Haddad, Mehmet Sanlıkol, and Mike Block. His expressive touch, rich harmonic imagination, and boundary-defying approach to composition have captivated audiences across the globe.
As a composer, Sam continues to explore the intersection of tradition and innovation. His works often unite cultural idioms with modern forms — from Fallen Jasmine, inspired by a traditional Thai melody, to The Fourth Fortress, which draws on the intricate rhythmic patterns of Gamelan and the resonant timbres of the gong.
In 2025, he founded the Sam Saomek Quartet — with Paul Joseph, Othniel Privat, and Woody Pierre — which is preparing his debut album “A GREAT MERCY”, to be released in March 2026. The album showcases Sam’s original compositions, drawing on global musical traditions as well as the gospel and spiritual influences that have shaped his musical journey since childhood.
Sam is pursuing his master’s degree at the New England Conservatory, studying with Ran Blake, Hankus Netsky, Bert Seager, Frank Carlberg, Akram Haddad, and Mehmet Sanlıkol.
In this concert, Sam and his friends will be performing music from his album “A GREAT MERCY”
Sam Saomek Srithongkum: Piano
Woody Pierre: Trumpet
Paul July Joseph: Drums
Othniel Privat: Bass
Eli Brandt: Soprano Saxophone
Graham Lin: Vocal