Moradok Thin Siang Samniang Tone Korat

Abstract

This creative research aimed to study the history of the Korat’s tone drum and to create a set of performances called “Moradok Thin Siang Samniang Tone Korat” (Local Heritage of  Korat’s Tone Drum). The research was conducted through a qualitative research methodology. The research tools used for data collection consisted of both observation and interview forms, as well as the recording of the focus group’s dialogues and experts commentaries. The research results were then presented through descriptive analysis. The research found that the Korat’s tone is an imitation of the Khmer’s tone. It is used as an instrument for performing Korat’s traditional music. The tone itself is crafted from clay of the village in Dan Kwian. The tone’s face is made of snakeskin or lizard skin, which are fully stretched. The snake skin provides a soprano tune, whereas the lizard skin provides an alto pitch. The underlying objective of this research was to publicize, preserve and promote the Korat’s tone. The performance’s title represents the tone of Korat. The melody for the show is Korat’s folk music combined with Isan’s folk music. The dance movements are based on both Isan’s and Korats’ prototypical dance. In total, the performance consists of 15 movements, which can be further performed in 15 variations in rows. The dress styles consist of tank-sleeve shirts and loincloths. The thirteen female performers wear gold jewelry, beautiful makeup and “Kratum Thad Dok Sathorn” hairstyles. The instruments in the show are small Korat’s tones. This performance can therefore be held during general auspicious ceremonies and demonstrations along with other instructional activities.