How to Learn Classical Thai Music
Thai classical music is part of a musical tradition that has existed in Thailand for more than 700 years. Learning Thai classical music can involve learning to play one or several instruments, and can also involve familiarizing oneself with the surrounding history and traditions. Thai classical music has been an oral tradition in the past, resulting in much music that is not by one specific composer, but rather the result of development and contribution by many musicians over many years.
- Recorded Thai classical music
- One of the following instruments (optional):
- Ranat
- Pinai
- Klong
- Kong wong
- So duang
- Solaw
- Jhakhe
- Klhui
- Khim
- So sam si
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Instructions
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1
Learn a Thai instrument. Possibilities include the xylophone-like ranat, the pinai, which resembles an oboe, and barrel drums known as klong. Study under an experienced player, or try to emulate recordings.
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2
Learn the culture surrounding Thai classical music, which plays several roles at specific events and places. For eample, a Pipat ensemble might perform at outdoor events such as funerals and cremations; the mahori orchestra for court performances was traditionally made up of women only.
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3
Learn about the history of the music.The Thai government and Thai tourist information agencies can provide information and examples of the music.