BLIND STREET MUSICIANS (BUSKERS) - A WAY OF LIFE IN THAILAND

Abstract

This article presents some history of blind musicians, or buskers, in Thailand, as well as identifying what it means to be a blind musician, come beggar, in Bangkok. Modern social studies construct patterns to help identify and classify social groups, with classifications that include; normal or abnormal, rich or poor, employed or unemployed – these classifications are then used by social sensors and governments to control elements of society, including these blind street musicians.

Using anthropology methodology and interview techniques, a group of blind Bangkok street musicians were researched in order to help understand their life and the way they use public space. An example is Amorn Samackarn, a sole street musician (who was extensively researched). Additionally, a large variety of available documentation was investigated from which much data was sourced.

These blind street performers are the personification of modern day personal struggle due, in part, to some of the negative effects of urbanization. These musical beggars use their bodies and music to fight for a position in society where they can, at least, survive.