“Uean” in Traditional Thai Song

Abstract

This article aims to contribute ideas in Thai vocalization through historical study. Author would like to share findings--- particularly in Uean, a crucial component in Thai vocal. The significance of Uean mostly covers the traditional singings in Thailand. The previous studies have presented and introduced Thai vocalization in many ways while Mr. Sujit Wongthed rather pointed out that in historical background of Uean, dating back to Ayutthaya era. His premises denied an appearance of Uean during Ayutthaya era and a traditional singing has not been getting along with Pop singing culture. Thus the author has deliberated on the traditional Thai vocalization in historical and sociological studies, the objectives are 1. To study an existence and development of Uean during Ayutthaya epoch and 2.To showcase a transition of Thai vocalization in contemporary time. The findings of the paper creditably affirm that an Uean tradition has been appeared since prior mid Ayutthaya era, the Uean was included in religious chanting and also folk singings. Additionally, Thai vocalization has been adjusted throughout the period of modern time. The empirical evidences indicated Pleng Thai Sakol is the attempts of harmonizing between traditional and contemporary traditions or a meeting of Thai and western cultures. The paper is based on a point of view of fist-hand experience regarding Thai vocalization of the author as singer. Therefore, Thai vocalization is still lively mobilizing a circle of conservative and contemporary dimension in some levels.