Isan Suite : The creation of songs based on Isan folk melodies for the Symphonic band

Abstract

The current study is a part of a doctoral dissertation entitled “Arranging Isan's Music Repertoire and Training Kit for Symphonic Band, Basic and Intermediate levels” The purpose of the study is to arrange songs based on Isan folk songs melodies for the symphonic bands used in listening for pleasure and integrating with symphonic band instruction. The data were collected by qualitative analysis of documents and interview. The songs were arranged based on the principles of western music composition. The data were presented in the exposition. The results of the study were as follows.

1. The criteria used in song selection were background information, interestedness, range, pleasure, popularity in traditional performances, the catchiness of rhythm, conciseness of rhythm, catchiness of songs, and popularity in traditional dances. All in all, 4 songs including “Serng Bung Fia”, “Mae Hang Kloom Look”, “Toei”, and Lum Pern” were selected in the study.

Modern suite form was selected as the main principle of the arrangement of “Isan Suite”. The song was composed using a combination of the four selected songs. Characteristics of Isan music including rhythm, pulse, scale, melody, transitional theme, drone harmony, and articulation were taken into consideration in the processes of the composition. The song contains a catchy characteristic of Isan music. The song lasts 5.25 minutes.