Transformations in the Ritual Music of the Khmer Ethnic Group in the Southern Area of Northeast Thailand | [Pakistan Journal of Life and Social Sciences • 2025]

Author(s):

1. Chaiyawat Chaiyachartkittyos: Philosophy Program in Musicology, Khon Kaen University,Khon Kaen,Thailand

2. Chalermsak Pikulsri: Philosophy Program in Music, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand .

3. Jatupon Srimueng: Graduate School, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand

Abstract:

The Khmer ethnic group in Thailand is one of the minority groups residing in the southern area of Northeast Thailand. They maintain traditions and beliefs that involve reverence for sacred entities, along with the performance of ritual music passed down through generations. This research aims to study the components of ritual music of the Khmer ethnic group, analyze their ritual music, and examine transformations in this music within the southern area of Northeast Thailand. The research employs a qualitative methodology, incorporating document analysis and fieldwork, including observations and interviews with local experts, musicians, and audiences. The findings are presented through descriptive analysis. The study reveals that the Khmer Piphat ensemble, a traditional musical ensemble, is used in various rituals of the Khmer ethnic group in the southern area of Northeast Thailand. These rituals include funeral ceremonies, elephant processions, Mamoud ceremonies, and traditional Likay performances in Sisaket, Surin, and Buriram provinces. It is believed that the performance of this music acts as a medium to communicate with sacred entities, signifying that descendants have arranged music to honor them. Key elements of the Khmer Piphat ensemble include instruments such as the Pi Nai, Ranat Ek, Ranat Thum (lower-pitched xylophone), Ranat Ek Lek (smaller metallophone), Ranat Thum Lek (larger and lower-pitched metallophone), Khong Wong Yai, Khong Wong Lek (a set of 18 tuned bossed gongs, smaller and higher in pitch), Taphon, and Klong That. These components reflect the cultural heritage of Khmer ritual music in the southern area of Northeast Thailand.

Page(s): 2557-2569

DOI: 10.57239/PJLSS-2025-23.1.00200

Published: Journal: Pakistan Journal of Life and Social Sciences, Volume: 23, Issue: 1, Year: 2025

Keywords:

Khmer Ethnic Group In Thailand , Khmer Ritual Music Folk Music

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