Kru Visanthat Ratanamongkolgasem and the Role of Master Craftsman in Traditional Lanna Musical Instrument ครูวิศาลทัศน์ รัตนมงคลเกษม และบทบาทเชิงช่างผู้ผลิตเครื่องดนตรีล้านนา

Abstract

This article is part of the research titled “The Process of Making Phin Pia: A Case Study of Kru Visanthat Ratanamongkolgasem” and aimed to study the life history and works, as well as the distinctive characteristics of the construction of Phin Pia of Kru Visanthat Ratanamongkolgasem. This was a qualitative research study that gathered data through interviews and participant observations. From the study, it was found that Kru Visanthat was a skilled artist in Lanna woodcraft, recognized in the artisan community for his masterful craftsmanship. He was also known as “Kru Boy Lai Mueang” in the Lanna music community and was an exceptional maker of the Phin Pia musical instrument. The Phin Pia handle featured simple, elegant designs. Kru Visanthat’s Phin Pia had five characteristics: 1) The coconut shell was shaped like a monk’s alms bowl, which enhanced sound reflection and resulted in a more resonant tone; 2) He chose straight-grained Rosewood for the Phin body, which prevented cracking and improved sound vibration, while also being more resistant to the tension of the strings; 3) The materials used in construction were natural, such as lac, bamboo, and silk, which contributed to the sound quality and extended the instrument’s lifespan; 4) The top part of the Phin Pia body was decorated with a royal drum pattern, which further improved sound vibration; and 5) The tuning pegs were shaped like Champi flowers, with slender stems that allowed for finer tuning adjustments. Due to its simple design, attention to detail in construction, and distinctive proportions, Kru Visanthat’s Phin Pia had excellent sound quality and was highly sought after by musicians. Kru Visanthat was committed to Lanna traditions and held an annual ceremony to pay respects to teachers, including music teachers, craftsmen, and teachers from various disciplines that he revered.