THE STUDY OF LEAF - BLOWING TECHNIQUES AND THE PROCESS OF CREATING ‘NYAH KUR’ ETHNIC IDENTITY, CHAIYAPHUM PROVINCE

Abstract

The study explores the practice of leaf-blowing playing and examines the formation of identity of the Nyah-Kur people in Chaiyaphum Province. The researcher employed a qualitative research methodology using ethnographic approach, which included participant observation and in-depth interviews. The research findings reveal that the Nyah-Kur people utilize leaf-blowing as a cultural symbol to express their ethnic identity. Leaf-blowing among the Nyah-Kur people in Chaiyaphum Province involves four? important elements: leaf selection, leaf-blowing method, sound production, and meaning. The creation of the Nyah-Kur ethnic identity through leaf-blowing is related to the changing social context, which can be divided into two eras: Era 1: traditional society, during which Nyah-Kur ethnic identity emerged through leaf-blowing that symbolized their way of life and demonstrated unity with nature through the hunter's lifestyle; Era 2: contemporary society, when outside influences began to affect the Nyah-Kur people, leading to transformations in their ethnic identity expression. The characteristics of the leaf-blowing melodies changed during this era, evolving from traditional forms into a hybrid style that incorporates influences from Isan music.