Rating: 3.5/5 (8 votes)

Open Days: Open during special occasions and weekends (Saturday – Sunday)

Opening Hours: Generally daytime (advance contact recommended)

 

Ban Khru Montri Tramote (Baan Som Song Saeng) is one of the most significant cultural and musical heritage sites in Nonthaburi Province. Located in a historic community along Tiwanon Road, Soi Phichayanon 2, Talat Khwan Subdistrict, Mueang Nonthaburi District, this residence was once the home of Khru Montri Tramote, a legendary figure in Thai classical music. Today, it serves as both a living cultural space and a valuable learning center that preserves the legacy of Thai musical traditions across generations.

 

Khru Montri Tramote was honored as a National Artist of Thailand in 1985 in the field of performing arts (Thai classical music). He is widely recognized as the “Composer of Five Reigns” due to his lifetime spanning from the reign of King Rama V to King Rama IX. His contributions to Thai music extended across multiple historical periods, making him one of the most influential figures in Thailand’s musical heritage.

 

Inside Baan Som Song Saeng, visitors can explore a comprehensive biography of Khru Montri, covering his early life, education, musical development, and lifelong dedication to composing Thai classical music. Over the course of his life, he composed more than 200 musical pieces, along with numerous lyrics that remain culturally significant. One of his most well-known compositions is “Som Song Saeng,” which also inspired the name of the house.

 

One of the most remarkable features of the house is its collection of original handwritten musical manuscripts. These documents date back to when Khru Montri was around 20 years old and continue through to his final works at the age of 91. These manuscripts provide rare and invaluable insight into the evolution of his musical creativity and serve as important historical evidence for the study of Thai classical music.

 

In addition to musical archives, the house also preserves personal belongings, traditional instruments, and the original living environment of Khru Montri. The simplicity of the setting reflects his modest lifestyle and unwavering dedication to the art of music.

 

The house remains inhabited by his descendants, who continue to preserve his legacy by offering Thai classical music lessons to the public every Saturday and Sunday. This makes the site not only a museum but also a living cultural space where Thai music continues to be actively practiced and passed down.

 

An important annual event held here is the traditional Wai Khru (Teacher Respect Ceremony) for Thai music, which takes place during the second week of February each year. The ceremony is open to the public free of charge and represents a deeply rooted cultural tradition that honors teachers and preserves Thai musical heritage.

 

Getting There is convenient from Bangkok. Visitors can travel via Tiwanon Road toward Nonthaburi Province, then enter Soi Tiwanon 3 (Soi Phichayanon 2), where the house is located. The surrounding area retains the charm of a traditional local community, offering a peaceful atmosphere suitable for cultural exploration.

 

 

A: It is mainly open on weekends and during special events.

 

A: No, admission is free.

 

A: Thai classical music lessons and the annual Wai Khru ceremony.

 

A: It is ideal for those interested in Thai music, culture, and history.

 

A: It is recommended to contact in advance before visiting.