Music of Hmong Ethnic in Phitsanulok Province to Develop Cultural Tourism

Abstract

The purpose of this research article aimed to expand the musical culture of Hmong and link to cultural tourism in Phitsanulok Province. It was a qualitative research by going to collect data in the field. There were individual interviews with spiritual leaders, community leaders, tribal leaders, especially musicians. Observation and participatory interviews in the Hmong ethnic area in Chat Trakan District and Nakhon Thai District, Phitsanulok Province were conducted. The results of the research found that the music of Hmong had a unique identity in that musical instruments, especially Kheng or Qeej and Jua or Drum were the medium of beliefs, traditions and culture. There was communication among people through music. Originally, Hmong music was used mostly in rituals. Today, the cultural dynamics of Hmong music were linked to the New Year tradition held in December every year in the Ban Nam Chuang area, Chat Trakan District and the area of Ban Huai Nam Sai, Nakhon Thai District, Phitsanulok Province. Because music was linked to cultural traditions, games, and lifestyles, it made music a cultural base. It played an important role in organizing the Hmong New Year celebrations. This resulted in cultural tourism in the area and increases social value until it caused the importance of the tribe to outside society. From the research results, we received support from the Phitsanulok Provincial Administrative Organization for organizing the Hmong New Year 2022 for the first year and creating a trend of cultural tourism in the Phitsanulok province area.