Abstract:
This research focused on studying history and musical analysis of Klong Yao Drum of I-San culture in Phol district, Khon Kaen province, which the drum bands consist of three types: a traditional band, traditional-applied band, and applied band. The research was conducted based on standard research methodology including gathering documents, interviewing, observing, analysis and descriptive analysis presentation. The results of the research showed that Klong Yao Drum in Phol district, Khon Kaen province was adopted from the traditional Klong Yao Drum band from Mahasarakham province since 1991. After that, local folks in Phol district have developed playing the traditional-applied band and applied band respectively. At the beginning, all the band types have been played in celebrating customs and ceremonies for a period of twelve months. The musical analysis of each Klong Yao I-San band type showed that it was played for different purposes of performance, but the basic rhythms are the same that is called Lai Kin Pon Kung. However, each drum types differ in the adaptation of dancing and performance. Based on the study, the playing pattern of the traditional band was the combination between Klong Yao I-san Drum and accompaniments. It emphasized on the drum rhythm and dancing with a simple pattern and uses Lai Wai Kru to pay homage before the performance. Meanwhile, the traditional-applied band included electrical music instruments such as I-San lute, bass, keyboard, and drum set into the band and focused on dancing style because it can be used for competitions. Therefore, the pattern for playing the traditional-applied band was then arranged into two parts. First, the traditional playing was performed using normal tempo, which is not too slow or too fast. Dancing style can be applied based on the playing skill of the band. Second, the applied playing will be performed together with I-San lute and keyboard using Lai LumPlearn to show playing skill of the musician as well as the entertaining dancer. Finally, the applied band arrangement was similar to the traditional-applied band, but it only played the applied rhythm. The playing songs depended on the audience, with cut at the beginning of the pattern then followed with stimulating Lai LumPlearn. The percussions were only used to control the rhythm while the drum set to play the melody instead. Recently, all the bands play important role in Phol district, KhonKaen province. However, the change of the community decreases the role of the Klong Yao Drum band in celebrating cultures, but it remains its role as entertainment in the procession and it is also uses for competitions. The playing style was changed based on the popularity of local people.