Drums: Relationships in Cultural Way and Buddhist Tradition

Abstract

An investigation into the dynamics of Isan drumming in its cultural context was the primary goal of this work, which was published in the Journal of Southeast Asian Studies (JSEAS). Qualitative research was conducted. By analysing and presenting data from written documents and fieldwork, descriptive analysis was used. In the study, there are two major findings. In the first place, drums are linked to Buddhist cultural practises. It was from Lanna to Lan Xang that the principles and beliefs of drums migrated to Isan or Northeastern Thailand. There are two distinct groupings of drums in the traditional sense of the word. As a first step, the Klong Phen (drums) used in religious ceremonies to indicate the passage of time and to commemorate significant events are mentioned. Klong Yao, Klong King, Klong Seng, and other popular Thai-Lao ethnic drums are used for entertainment in Buddhist customs and rites. When it comes to later times, drumming dynamics of Isan drums have been influenced by the situation in which they are played. A combination of outside influences and a government desire to encourage culture has resulted in a lack of cultural diversity. As a result, the cultural manner of Isan drums is still influenced by the dynamics of values that promote the adaptability.