Preservation and perpetuation of culture of folk song in Suphanburi province, the city of creative music

Abstract

       The purposes of this research were: 1) to examine the context of folk song cultural preservation and inheritance in Suphan Buri, a UNESCO Creative City of Music; 2) to analyze factors influencing its implementation; and 3) to propose practical guidelines for effective application. This study employed a qualitative research methodology. Data were collected from 60 key informants, including members of cultural preservation communities, public sector executives, and educational personnel. The research instruments comprised unstructured interviews and focus group discussions. Data were analyzed using systematic content analysis and interpretation.          

       The findings revealed that folk song preservation is profoundly intertwined with social structures. Historically, folk songs functioned as "cultural capital" and "social tools" that fostered community identity and unity. However, increasing social complexity has led to a noticeable decline in these roles. Key success factors for contemporary preservation include systematic research databases, integrated public-private partnerships, and the inclusion of folk music in educational curricula. Consequently, this research proposes a "Social Model" aimed at reconnecting fragmented social units. This model integrates curricula, activities, and policies within a structural framework to ensure practical and concrete implementation.