Moderator : Dr. Pongthep Jitduangprem

Applying Bhuddism Aspects in Music Performance

Dr. Apichai Chantanakajornfung

 

Festivals: Creating Context for Instrumental Teaching in Thailand

Dr. Tawanrat Meewongukote

 

 

 

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Applying Bhuddism Aspects in Music Performance

Dr. Apichai Chantanakajornfung

Princess Galyani Vadhana Institute of Music, Thailand

Music performance requires a demanding focus and precision that reflects back to each practice session. To achieve an effective performance, one must be aware of every movement occurring. This procedure requires a similar practice to that of mindfulness in Buddhism. To gain a consciousness of every move is a key concept of Buddhism practice. These two practices, performance and mindfulness, support each other. One can discover techniques through Buddhism practice to enhance their music performance and, vice versa music practice can enhance mindfulness in daily life as well. The Buddhism aspects go beyond internal occurrences of the mind, which we as musicians might have experienced many times. This paper explains this mind occurrence corresponding to Buddhism concepts and practices.

Festivals: Creating Context for Instrumental Teaching in Thailand

Dr. Tawanrat Meewongukote

Princess Galyani Vadhana Institute of Music, Thailand

Festivals have emerged as dynamic platforms for enhancing instrumental teaching practices by creating immersive and context-rich learning environments. In Thailand, a country rich in musical diversity, there are numerous festivals tailored to individual instruments such as the Thailand Flute Festival, Thailand International Clarinet Academy, Thailand International Percussion Festival, Thailand International Tuba Euphonium Conference, and Thailand International String Festival, to name a few. This presentation explores the role of festivals in cultivating a conducive context for instrumental teaching, with a specific focus on the Thailand International Trombone Festival (TITF). The study explores the multifaceted dimensions of festivals as transformative areas for musical pedagogy and examines how the TITF, in particular, contributes to the advancement of trombone education in Thailand.

Drawing upon an array of pedagogical theories, the presentation highlights how festivals serve as triggers for experiential and collaborative learning. It emphasizes the ways in which festivals establish a unique setting that fosters hands-on engagement, encourages peer-to-peer interaction, and promotes cross-cultural musical exchanges. By leveraging the contextual background of the TITF, instrumental educators can effectively connect theoretical concepts with practical application, enhancing students' comprehension and skill acquisition.

The presentation places a special emphasis on addressing language barriers faced by Thai students within the realm of instrumental pedagogy. It examines how festivals like TITF serve as  unique avenues for overcoming these linguistic challenges. Through its diverse and immersive activities, the festival facilitates a transformative learning experience that transcends language limitations. By fostering an environment rich in cross-cultural interactions and musical collaborations, the TITF empowers Thai students to navigate and ultimately bridge the language gap. The festival's inclusive and interactive nature equips these students with valuable skills, enabling them to communicate effectively and thrive in the global musical community. 

Furthermore, the presentation sheds light on the potential impact of festivals on motivation and inspiration. It discusses how the TITF's vibrant performances, masterclasses, and workshops can invigorate students' enthusiasm for learning, stimulating their creativity and dedication to their craft. The festival's diverse array of activities fosters a sense of musical community, encouraging students to aspire to higher standards of performance and teaching.

In conclusion, this study stresses the vital role of festivals, tailored to individual instruments, in creating a comprehensive and culturally relevant context for instrumental teaching. By embracing the immersive and collaborative learning opportunities offered by festivals, instrumental educators can effectively bridge theory and practice, instill motivation, and cultivate a deeper understanding of the instrument's cultural significance. The insights gleaned from this exploration have the potential to enhance instrumental pedagogy not only in Thailand but also in broader international contexts.