SIAM BOURGEOISIE - PARVENU AND DEVELOPMENT OF THAI TRADITIONAL MUSIC IN EARLY PERIOD OF RATTANAKOSIN

Abstract

This article presents historical study of Thai music which points out the concept of musical development factors occurred in early Rattanakosin period. The study throughout the period at that time, focused on an investigation including knowledge of musical instruments, bands and song in Thai music. The study has found that the development of Thai music pattern in early Rattanakosin period expanded faster and more frequently than the previous

periods in both Krung Thon Buri and Ayutthaya. The key factor of development was the expansion of a society driven by a market economy which increased bargaining power of the middle and lower classes leading to the Bourgeoisie and nouveau riche (New money) outside the royal court. These groups were considered an intermediary between royal court, residents and the international group. Moreover, this led to the concept of perceptive listening as well as the concept of greater acceptance which influenced Thai music development stereotypes in royal court of Siam during the Rattanakosin period.