THE INFLUENCE OF WESTERN MUSIC ON THE TRANSFORMATION OF THAI MUSIC CULTURE

Abstract

The influence of Western music on Thai music has led to inevitable changes in Thai musical culture, both creatively, resulting in the adaptation and development of music in new forms to reach the tastes of people in today's society and become more internationally accepted,
this encompasses adjusting the pitch of Thai musical instruments to align with the international standard tuning system, adapting musical genres, melodies, and ensemble formats to collaborate with Western music. It also includes composing new music in Western musical forms using Thai instruments, or conversely, using Western instruments to perform arrangements of traditional Thai melodies. While adapting to contemporary tastes, there's a preservation of traditional Thai musical ensembles, instrumental combinations, and authentic performance techniques. It's not about complete transformation. There's ongoing support, dissemination, and transmission of traditional Thai musical knowledge to society. Given the constant evolution of society, Thai music must adapt by conserving its heritage while simultaneously developing new elements. This approach will help Thai music gain popularity among the new generations and also meet the needs and reach a diverse group of listeners in the modern era, while also making Thai music a strong and valuable culture of Thai society forever. This academic article explores various aspects of Western music's impact on Thai music culture, including the introduction of Western music, the notation of Thai music, alterations to Thai musical sound, and the creation of Thai contemporary music bands.