Guidelines for Developing Criteria for Luk Thung Music Band Competitions in the 21st Century: For Student Arts and Crafts Events

Abstract

        This research aimed to study guidelines for developing criteria for Luk Thung music band competitions in the 21st century within the context of student arts and crafts festivals. The study employed qualitative research methodology through in-depth interviews with purposively selected key informants consisting of 3 individuals: Mr. Sala Khunawutti, National Artist in Performing Arts (Thai International Music-Thai Luk Thung Composition), Mr. Chakkawan Sao-thong, Music Producer, and Mr. Surin Methanee, Dean of the Faculty of Creative Industries at Rattana Bundit University, all of whom serve as judges for music band competitions in student arts and crafts events. The data collection instrument was a semi-structured interview covering topics related to aesthetic judgment criteria in 3 groups: subjectivism, objectivism, and relativism, as well as 5 aspects of Luk Thung music competition development guidelines including cultural heritage, 21st century education, choreography design principles, music design principles, and performance design principles.
         The findings revealed that the judging criteria for Luk Thung music band competitions in the 21st century can be divided into 3 main aspects: vocal performance, which emphasizes voice clarity, vocal techniques, emotional expression, and the ability to communicate song meanings; performing arts, which focuses on stage space utilization, movement of singers and musicians, coordination among band members, and the ability to attract audience attention; and music, which encompasses proper instrumental performance according to musical principles, synchronized playing, harmony balance, and creativity in song arrangement. The judges shared common perspectives on developing competition criteria suitable for the 21st century by emphasizing balance in all aspects and promoting the unique identity of Thai Luk Thung music through modern and creative performance formats to elevate competition standards in accordance with contemporary social and cultural contexts.