Sam Saomek Srithongkum

Pianist • Composer • Innovator

Sam Saomek Srithongkum is a multigenre pianist and composer whose artistry transcends musical boundaries. Blending the worlds of jazz, contemporary classical music, global 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 global 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 Quartet, featuring Paul Joseph on drums, Othniel Privat on bass, and Woody Pierre on trumpet. The ensemble is currently preparing Sam’s debut album, scheduled for release in March 2026, which will showcase his cross-cultural vision and evolving compositional voice.

As a composer, Sam continues to explore the intersection of tradition and innovation. His works often fuse cultural idioms with modern forms — from Fallen Jasmine, inspired by a traditional Thai melody, to The Fourth Fortress, which draws upon the intricate rhythmic patterns of Gamelan and the resonant timbres of the gong.

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, Bert Seager, and Frank Carlberg. Their guidance continues to shape his artistic path as he seeks to create music that is both timeless and transformative.