Thayae Mon Songs in a Contemporary Dimension: Musical Creation for Promoting Cultural Tourism

Abstract

The findings revealed that Thayae Mon music is a form of folk performing art of the Mon people with distinctive identities in melody, rhythm, tonal system, performance style, musical instruments, and expressive character. Its important musical characteristics include repetitive melodic patterns, stepwise melodic movement, clear rhythmic patterns, and ensemble performance. The researcher applied the musical identities of this folk performance and integrated them with modern musical elements. Local community members participated by presenting ideas for creative development in various dimensions. The created works were evaluated and revised based on suggestions from experts and qualified specialists. The songs were then disseminated through various media channels as public relations tools to promote cultural tourism. The research results indicate that the creative development of folk music in a contemporary form can serve as an important mechanism for preserving, transmitting, developing, and promoting local culture. Moreover, it can effectively support the enhancement of cultural tourism.