Pianist • Composer • Bandleader

Sam Saomek Srithongkum is a jazz pianist and composer whose artistry transcends musical boundaries. Blending the worlds of jazz, contemporary classical music, Thai traditions, and gospel influences, Sam has emerged as a distinctive voice in today’s international music scene.

Rooted in both depth and versatility, Sam has performed and recorded with numerous award-winning and Grammy-nominated artists, including Christylez Bacon, Jamey Haddad, Mehmet Sanlıkol, Edward Perez, Mike Block, Akram Haddad, Christian David, and Telem Uncommon Sounds. His expressive touch and boundary-defying compositions have captivated audiences around the world.

Dedicated to cultivating a truly universal sound, Sam seamlessly weaves the colors of world music into the harmonic and structural sophistication of jazz and contemporary classical forms. His music speaks a universal language — one that bridges cultures, traditions, and generations through a shared emotional resonance.

In 2025, Sam founded the Sam Saomek Quintet, featuring Paul Joseph on drums, Othniel Privat on bass, Woody Pierre on trumpet, and Max Cannon on alto saxophone. Sam and his band, alongside many guest artists, have just released an album, “A Great Mercy,” on all streaming platforms and Bandcamp.

Sam is currently pursuing his master’s degree at the New England Conservatory, where he has had the privilege of studying under distinguished mentors including Ran Blake, Hankus Netsky, and Bert Seager. Their guidance continues to shape his artistic path as he seeks to create music that is both timeless and transformative.