Evolution of Thai Music Recording During the Reign of King Rama VII
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Abstract
This study aimed to explore the evolution of Thai music recordings during the reign of King Rama VII, between 1925 and 1932. Utilizing documentary evidence and interviews, the research employed descriptive data analysis to present its findings.
The study revealed that during this period, Thai-owned entities conducting music recordings were divided into government agencies—such as gramophone record —and private enterprises including Suthadilok Department Store, The Gramophone Co., Ltd., Odeon Company, Columbia Company, Polyphon Werke A-G Berlin, Pathe Company, Polyphonewerke A.G. Berlin, Deutche Grammaphone Company, and Rattanamala Store. Seven record labels were identified: Rabbit Brand, Dog Brand, Serene Brand, Naree Srisumit Brand, Twin Elephant Building Brand, Columbia Brand, and Parophone Brand, indicating a diverse business landscape in the music industry.
Most of the recorded musicians were those recalled to serve in King Prajadhipok's royal ensemble. The ensembles used for recordings included Piphat ensembles, string ensembles mixed with Khim (Thai dulcimer), violin, organ, and Western string ensembles. Notably, violins were used to accompany vocals similarly to the Saw-U (a traditional Thai fiddle) in the Piphat Mainuam ensemble. The repertoire recorded comprised Na Phat songs, Sam Chan (third-level tempo) songs, single-tempo songs, and Kret songs. Musical phrases were adapted into linguistic accents, and new compositions were created in march and waltz melodies, reflecting the influence of Western culture on Thai music society.
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