Ground Lion Dance and Music of Ground Lion Dance, Heshan Model : Case study of Thailand Long Quan Lion Academy

Abstract

     This research aims to study the techniques of the ground lion dance in the Heshan model and develop a knowledge package for lion dance skills in the Thonburi area. Additionally to examine the musical composition of the ground lion dance in the Heshan style and gather musical notations using software. This research used qualitative research methods (Qualitative Research), interviews and data collection using a case study from the Long Qian Thailand Academy.
     The research findings are:
     1. The Long Qian Thailand Academy used lion dance in the Heshan Style. This is a modern form of lion dance that is found in Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Thailand. And the dance postures are inspired by a cat-like manner and the adorable and playful cat gestures that the ground lion dance is commonly used during special occasions. The basic step of the lion dance consists of the "Chi Xue" posture which is conveyed by the lion's walking movement, and the "Xing Li" posture the lion's bowing gesture. There are 7 foundational postures known as the "Seven Flowers." Including, "Xi Pu" posture, "Jian Xian" posture, "Zhong Jian" posture, "Da Jian" posture, "Cha Pou" posture, "Tan Pou" posture, and "He Pu" posture.
     Developing a knowledge package for practice lion dancing skills in Thonburi area, the researcher has prepared it in the form of an electronic book, totaling 50 pages. The contents include: History of the lion dance in Thonburi, the appearance of the lion's head, the Heshan style lion dance moves, and the music score for the performance. Schools in Thonburi It is used for educational benefits, through organizing activities to develop Thonburi lion performance skills for students and youth of the Intharam Temple and Talat Phlu communities.
     2. Music for the Heshan lion dance Long Qian Thailand Academy Three types of musical instruments are used: 1) The lion drum is the main instrument used to accompany the lion dance. 2) Cymbals, used to complement the lion drum. To have an exciting rhythm and 3) Meng is used to direct the rhythm of the drums and cymbals. This group playing together is called a Mahori ensemble. The traditional Heshan-style lion dance is accompanied by a mahori ensemble, including the lion drum, cymbals, and gong. The performance begins with an initial rhythm to signal the commencement of the lion dance, followed by rhythmic movements such as bowing, swaying, and dancing in sync with the heartbeat. The dance progresses through seven distinct beats, each separated by a heartbeat and a gaze rhythm. This signals a change in the lion's posture for each beat. After completing the seventh beat, the ensemble plays a farewell rhythm, concluding with a final lowering beat. Following this, there is a symbolic performance of consuming auspicious foods, such as oranges, vegetables, or various fruits. These symbolic offerings are then distributed to the host for prosperity and abundance.