EXPANDING 21ST CENTURY PERFORMER GENRE BOUNDARIES - INTRODUCING THAI LUK THUNG ELEMENTS TO THAILAND TRUMPET PERFORMERS

Abstract

Trumpet performers in the 21st century should be able to adapt their instrumental skills to perform various styles of music. In Thailand’s current musical industry, trumpet players who can perform diverse styles of music have more employment prospects. Luk Thung music (Thai country/folk music) is one such style. Thai Luk Thung music has a unique character that demands high trumpet skill to perform. The purpose of this research was to design a Luk Thung trumpet training program according to guidelines derived from previous study results. The two research questions were 1) How effectively can Luk Thung elements and techniques be introduced to Thai trumpet students? and 2) Does the course enable trumpet players to improve their understanding and performance of Thai Luk Thung style? The program duration was 12 weeks. Classes were held once a week (two hours per class). A group of ten trumpet students between the ages of 15-18 years old who had limited prior experience playing Luk Thung music in school Luk Thung band from the local area (Songkhla province, southern Thailand) were selected to participate in the program. Data was collected using performance pre-tests and pre-interviews before the program started. All lessons were recorded and observed by the researchers. After the course was finished, all participants did performance post-tests and post-interviews. The results after participating in the program found that trumpet techniques commonly found in Luk Thung music such as lip slurs and trumpet special sound effects were considered something new for students. What students learned during this program changed their attitudes about playing Luk Thung music and helped them improve their confidence in approaching Luk Thung style. However, the duration of the training program was not long enough, according to student participants, many of whom wanted longer instruction periods.