MEE ROI LAI: CREATIVE THAI MUSIC FROM THE IKAT SILK OF THAI PHUAN

Abstract

This thesis, entitled “Mee Roi Lai: Creative Thai Music from the Ikat Silk Patterns of the Phuan People”, employed a qualitative research methodology. The primary objective was to develop an original musical composition inspired by the Mee Roi Lai (hundred-pattern ikat silk) created by the Phuan community in Ban Phuan Subdistrict, Ban Mi District, Lopburi Province.

The research findings indicate that Mee Roi Lai is an ikat silk pattern innovatively designed by Ms. Vanida Rakprom, the leader of the Ban Phuan Women Volunteers’ Group. The pattern integrates traditional motifs with contemporary designs, resulting in 34 distinct variations. Each motif exhibits characteristic features such as diagonal lines, circles, triangles, and squares, symbolizing natural elements, utilitarian objects, and the cultural beliefs and traditions of the Phuan people.

Creating the composition "Mee Roi Lai" involved transcribing silk patterns into digital notation using the Fruity Loops program. The structure was created from the directional flow of the textile and the systematic pairing of sounds. Utilizing the Piano Roll function in the key of C allowed for correlation with tonal levels in Thai music, reflecting the spatial arrangement of the patterns. The prototype melody was rearranged through the aesthetic principles of Thai music. The final piece was performed by a Pong Lang ensemble, a Northeastern folk band that includes Phin, Khaen, Bass, Ponglang, Klonghang, Klongtum, and various percussion. The performance conveyed a sense of festivity and exuberance, reminiscent of communal celebrations. "Mee Roi Lai" consists of an introduction, a slow section, and a fast section, featuring the innovative use of the loom shuttle sound in place of the drum, a creative choice that established a newly designed rhythmic foundation.