Abstract:
The thesis entitled the inheriting of Pi Phat Ensembles in Muang district, Nakhon
Ratchasima province aimed at 1) studying the condition and role of the Pi Phat ensemble in Muang District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province and 2) studying the inheriting process of Pi Phat ensembles in Muang District, Nakhon Ratchasima province by using qualitative research methods and methods of ethnomusicology. Data were collected by reviewing related literatures, interviewing with the leader of Pi Phat ensembles in Muang district, Nakhon Ratchasima
province and observing participatory teaching learning and ensembles inheriting. The data were analyzed and presented using descriptive method. The results revealed that.
1. The study of condition and role of the Pi Phat ensemble in Muang District, Nakhon
Ratchasima Province revealed that there are four existing and inherited Pi Phat ensembles. The
musicians had less of a playing role and were divided into five groups namely Khonkhrueang, Khonranat, Khonpi, Khonkhrueangnang and Khonchangwa. There were two types of ensembles; Pi Phat Thai and Pi Phat Mon. The Pi Phat Mon ensemble was likely to meet the needs of people
in Muang district, Nakhon Ratchasima province. The ensemble usually played in funeral
ceremonies. Besides, the Pi Phat Mon ensembles were used to substitute the Pi Phat Thai
ensembles and performed in Likay, Khon and dance performances.
2. The study of the inheriting process of Pi Phat ensembles in Muang District, Nakhon
Ratchasima revealed that there were four types of inheriting process including inheriting from
ancestors, inheriting from local musicians, inheriting from musicians from other cities, back-door
learning. The knowledge was passed onto the family system and disciples then brought to schools
using notes as the medium together with audio recording technology, animation, and teaching
through social media. The inheriting process also adopted a mixed method between the new
teaching and the oral lore with Gong-Wong Yai as the first instrument in practicing Thai music
principles. The Gong-Wong Yai played the main melody in which the teacher will play the
melody and the disciples practice accordingly then repeat this process to gain skills.