Standardized Judging Criteria for the Traditional Klong Yao Competition in Rong Kham District Kalasin Province

Abstract

This research consists purposes were 1. to examine the roles and identity of the ancient long drums (Klong Yao Boran) in Rong Kham District Kalasin Province and 2. to analyze the structure of the standard criteria used for judging ancient long-drum competitions (Seng Klong Yao Boran) in Rong Kham District Kalasin Province. This qualitative study employed two research instruments: interview and observation forms. The target group consisted of five participants, including folk music experts, competition participants and local stakeholders in Rong Kham District Kalasin Province. All participants were selected through purposive sampling. The data obtained from documentary sources and the research instruments were analyzed using content analysis. The findings revealed that 1) the traditional long drum of Rong Kham District possesses distinctive characteristics, particularly its clear, high-pitched and melodious sound, as well as a competition format in which performers move in a circular procession around the competition field. These characteristics reflect the local cultural context and the concept of fairness in evaluating drum sound quality and 2) the judging criteria are systematically structured with clearly defined scoring proportions. Sound quality receives the highest weighting at 50%, followed by rhythm and synchronization at 20%, performance style and creativity at 20% and traditional local attire at 10% and the establishment of these standardized judging criteria serves as an important mechanism for preserving, transmitting and perpetuating the identity of traditional folk music associated with the Seng Klong Yao tradition of Rong Kham District, enabling it to remain sustainable within the context of contemporary society.