Orchestra in Thailand is made up entirely of blind musicians
In Thailand, some Buddhists view physical or intellectual disability as punishment manifested for wrongdoing in a past life. The Thai Blind Orchestra, made up of children as young as 9, hopes to help combat this perception through its musical training and performances.
Rungroj Yongrit, a photographer with the European Pressphoto Agency, spent time at rehearsals and performances with the members of the Thai Blind Orchestra, showcasing their talents and dedication.
The orchestra currently includes around 15 blind children, who learn traditional Thai songs and classical Western compositions. It was founded by Alongkot Chukaew, a classically trained musician who also runs the Thai Elephants Research and Conservation Fund in northern Thailand.
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Chukaew, who teaches the young musicians to read music in Braille, said he hopes to enhance both their skills and their pride in who they are.
European Pressphoto Agency contributed reporting.
Topics Music
Johnny Simon is a Photo Editor at Mashable, where he works to tell compelling stories utilizing the visual medium of photography. A graduate of Ohio University's School of Visual Communication, Johnny has previously worked for MSNBC and Slate and interned in the White House Photo Office under photographer Pete Souza.
