Ponglang Ensemble Music Competition in Northeast Thailand

Abstract

The following research is entitled “Ponglang Ensemble Competition”. It utilized the qualitative research method for studying and presenting findings through a descriptive analysis. The study focused on three main questions:

1) What is the preparation process for the award winning Ponglang Ensemble ?

2) Are the judging criteria for the Ponglang competitors fair and equal?

3) After the competition, what specific benefits or rewards do participants of different ages, education levels, identities and occupations receive?

The interview subjects were mainly two national artists, nine competition judges, seven ensemble leaders, several professional teachers and ensemble members. Research methods included interviews, observations, documentation analysis and open-ended questionnaire. The findings were based on analysis and interpretation of field data: notes, interviews, videotaped observations, documents, sound recordings and an open-ended questionnaire. The results showed that:

1) Seven award-winning Ponglang Ensemble members used peer tutoring, which played a fundamental role throughout the learning and rehearsal process. The emotions stirred in me by the competition showed that the Isan people admire, respect and appreciate the royal family. It was clear that the life of Isan farmers was difficult, but happy; full of love and continued the traditional local culture and customs of the Isan. The aesthetic value of the Ponglang Ensemble is embodied through the music, traditional dance and clothing. Ponglang Ensemble music changed from short, simple and happy to complex, diverse and more entertaining. The free nature of Ponglang dance allowed contemporary dancers more space to be creative, communicating themes more clearly and enhancing entertainment. The ensemble clothing served to shape the image of the characters, spread national culture and add to the overall aesthetic of the performance.

2) Judges used comprehensive criteria to evaluate the competition as it was unfair to select only solo winners. We formulated judging criteria and rating scales, which improved the system for rewarding and penalizing contestants. This system included analysis of conflicts and resolutions during the Ponglang Ensemble competition, understanding the value of disagreements between judges and the ensemble members, and eventually agreements between ensemble members and judges. The dispute lasted for a short period of time due to influence by the Isan character and the traditional Thai education system. Disagreements between Ponglang Ensembles were mainly seen in the preparation process and during the competition. Afterwards, conflicts between the two sides were alleviated through celebration.

3) Research results indicated that the benefits gained by participating in the competition were different for each participant. This was directly related to each individual’s personal motivation and character. The primary drive for educational personnel and artists was honor, and the greatest benefit was also related to honor. For financiers, their motives were mainly commercial and they received corresponding financial compensation after the competition.

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