Ranat Phat Gong Ensemble of Wat Pho Phra Ong, Phing Phuai Subdistrict, Si Rattana District, Si Sa Ket Province

Abstract

This article “Ranat Phat Gong Ensemble of Wat Pho Phra Ong, Phing Phuai Subdistrict, Si Rattana District, Si Sa Ket Province” is part of a thesis on “Ranat Phat Gong Ensemble in Si Sa Ket Province.” This article aims to study the music characteristics and roles of the Ranat Phat Gong ensemble of Wat Pho Phra Ong at Phing Phuai Subdistrict, Si Rattana District, Si Sa Ket Province. The study was conducted through qualitative methodology and musicology. Data derived from related literature reviews, documents, and a field study including observation and interview. The study findings were as follows. For music characteristics, it was found that each musical instrument in the Ranat Phat Gong ensemble of Wat Pho Phra Ong was similar to those in the Thai Piphat ensemble. The difference was the unique ensemble itself. That was the musicians sat in a circle with the Gong Wong Yai in the center. In this way, the musicians were able to hear each music sound clearly. For social services, it was found that the Ranat Phat Gong ensemble of Wat Pho Phra Ong has played an important role in the community since the past. Its role has varied from place to place depending on social contexts. Up to the present time, the Ranat Phat Gong has been played to serve the community livelihood, especially at Si Rattana District and in neighboring provinces. This was due to the fact that the local people conserved and related the role of ritual music to their way of life.