[Main visual] Kakanang Wangcherdchuwong
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Kakanang Wangcherdchuwong

Electone Instructor, Yamaha Music Academy. Teacher Training and Examiner for Electone Course for Yamaha Music School Thailand

Finding Your Voice and Building Independence Through Music

A Conversation with Kakanang Wangcherdchuwong

We sat down with Kakanang Wangcherdchuwong to discuss her career so far and thoughts around music and education.

Some background on her music journey

When she was young, the person who sparked Kakanang’s joy in music was her grandfather who often sings old-style songs to her playing the Khim, a traditional Thai instrument that she played during secondary school. With the coincidence of receiving an Electone as a present from her father's client, Kakanang became enchanted by the instrument, so her mother took her to Yamaha Music School to take Electone lessons. After joining school activities and completing grade 5, the school director asked if she would be interested in teaching there, first as an assistant, and now as an instructor.

Her thoughts on music and education

In lessons, Kakanang aims for students to gain both knowledge and enjoyment from learning with her. She believes that in order to pass on the love for music, the teacher first needs to show the student how passionate they are. “Music is supposed to be fun and creative, and each student has different styles and opinions. I want to guide them to become confident in who they are.” She believes music teachers play a big part in helping students find their voices and develop their own style independently. Teachers also learn a lot from their students as well, since all of them are different, and that makes each lesson unique. Seeing students achieve something, whether big or small, makes her feel proud and motivated to continue teaching.

[Photo] Kakanang Wangcherdchuwong

External experience and inspiration such as traveling, meeting new people, and listening to various kinds of music also contribute to music making, in Kakanang’s view. “There is a unique feeling of adrenaline and self-awareness that I have only when playing the instrument or giving performances.” To play an instrument is to share feelings through music. Even though people may come from different cultures, every gender is equally talented.

“Music doesn’t limit gender; everyone should be able to get enjoyment out of playing music. I want to show that women who play music can be cool, and hope that it would inspire the next generations to come.”

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