ARRANGEMENT OF INDIGENOUS ISAN LULLABY ACCOMPANIMENTS FOR DEVELOPING BASIC BRASS PRACTICAL PERFORMANCE SKILLS

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Isan folk songs are a cultural heritage passed down from ancestors and remain an integral part of the daily lives of local communities. It is essential to apply this cultural heritage in various fields. This research aimed to study Isan folk lullabies, develop fundamental brass instrument practice exercises based on Isan folk lullabies, and arrange musical accompaniments for these lullabies to ensure that learners acquire proper performance skills through collaborative learning within brass ensembles.

Methods: This study employed a mixed-methods research approach with two target groups: five brass instrument experts and thirty students enrolled in the Brass Performance I course. Participants were selected using purposive sampling. The research instruments included document analysis forms and questionnaires. Qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis, while quantitative data were analyzed using frequency distribution and percentage calculations.

Key Findings: The findings revealed that (1) Isan folk lullabies feature traditional melodies, with “Norn Sa La” selected for this study; (2) the development of fundamental brass instrument exercises considered both performance and listening skills to help learners accurately perceive pitch. The exercises included long-tone exercises, articulation exercises, lip flexibility exercises, scale exercises, melody-based exercises, melody performance, melodic variation, stylistic interpretation, and ear-training exercises; (3) the musical arrangements incorporated string and percussion instruments, employing melodic harmonization to enrich the timbre and provide a guiding melodic line for performance; and (4) the fundamental brass instrument exercises were deemed at the highest level (x̅ = 4.31, SD = 0.748).

Implications of the Study: This research presents an instructional approach that integrates local cultural knowledge into brass instrument education while emphasizing harmonic arrangement in developing repertoire suitable for performance. Additionally, it contributes to the preservation of local cultural heritage.

Conclusion and Future Research: This study represents an effort to apply cultural heritage derived from local wisdom to music education and performance activities within multicultural societies. It serves as a foundation for the dissemination of Isan folk culture at the international level.