Bangkok is a lot of things. A fiddle-and-banjo capital? Not really. And yet, for one weekend at the end of November, Phrom Phong is going to sound like it’s been hijacked by Appalachian cowboys and Irish pub regulars.
From November 28-30, Public House Bangkok hosts round two of The South Eastern Old Time Gathering – a three day festival of flutes, fiddles and mandolins. The first edition earlier this year packed out with more than two hundred people, so clearly Bangkok has a secret soft spot for acoustic roots music. This time around, they’re flying in talent from four continents to join the usual local legends who never miss a jam – expect a proper showcase of traditional tunes and good vibes all around.
If you’re wondering what ‘old-time’ actually means, don’t stress. It’s folk, it’s Irish, it’s Scottish, it’s of course, bluegrass. It’s traditional music from all over the world, but all with the same roots. With so many styles in the mix, there’s bound to be something that hits the spot.
The fun here isn’t only the music on stage. You can jump into an open jam, pick up a new tune (or a new mate), and properly get stuck in the trad music community. Between sets, there’s a market with handmade instruments and crafts, so you might swing by for a pint and end up leaving with a banjo. Wouldn’t be the weirdest thing to happen.
And while Bangkok might feel a world away from the roots of bluegrass or trad Irish tunes, but what’ll really grab you is the sheer talent of the musicians on show, and the charm is in seeing this little pocket of music nerds take over a city corner. You’ll see strangers swapping tunes and stories, visiting musicians jumping in with locals, and a crowd being whisked off to distant places and times – all without ever leaving the hotel.
Programme:
- Friday, November 28 – The Welcome Jam (7pm-10pm)
An intimate jam session bringing together local players and visiting musicians from abroad, with canapés and free-flow drinks included. A casual start to meet people and set the tone for the weekend. - Saturday, November 29 – The Gathering (1pm-10pm)
The main festival day with a full schedule of music featuring Thai and international acts, including an unmissable international headliner in the spirit of last year’s standout performances. Between sets, enjoy the market zone with local instruments, crafts and refreshments available for purchase. - Sunday, November 30 – Brunch and Banjos (11am-3pm)
A relaxed half-day festival featuring a lineup of musicians with acoustic sets paired with a full brunch (one alcoholic drink, two coffees, one juice and one main dish included).
The event runs from November 28-30 at Public House Bangkok – the tickets are already moving on Ticketmelon, and given the crowd at the last edition, hesitation is not advised. Check the remaining tickets right here.