THE SPIRIT OF NORTHEASTERN CULTURAL SONGS: CREATING THE IDENTITY OF RAJAMANGALA ISAN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Abstract

    The characteristics of sound and content in songs that reflect the lives and beliefs of Northeastern people in Thailand (Isan) indicated the local culture. The objectives of this research are: 1) to study Isan folk music and create culturally significant songs, 2) to establish an identity for the symphony orchestra of Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, and 3) to create, extend, and preserve the cultural values of Isan, utilizing qualitative research methodology. Data recording approved by advisors, was used to gather information based on relationships discovered through document study and analyzed through inductive methods to find answers. The research findings are as follows: 1) Isan folk music uses pentatonic scales with minor scales; the song's harmony lacks a systematic structure, with short musical phrases performed repetitively as required; the tempo ranges from moderate to relatively fast, with a three-part melodic structure (introduction, main, and subsidiary), referred to as "lai", 2) The identity of the symphony orchestra comprises (1) a fusion of Isan cultural folk music and Western music, (2) harmonization arrangements, (3) suitable chord progressions, and (4) improvises, 3) Seven songs were composed and presented namely Khorat Torn Rab, Duen Ngai Thi Rim Khong, Tam Rak Thi Tard Laung, Phi Keiw Mi Pen , Som Tam, Sao Isan Raw Rak, and Toei Klong. These songs indicated to contemporary content and emotions with appropriate resonance.