A Case for Rote Learning: Conserving the Ramwong Saxophone Culture of Suntaraporn

Abstract

The Suntaraporn band is one of the most successful and influential groups in Thai cultural history. They transformed Thai musical culture throughout the twentieth century, typified by their adaptation of ramwong, a local genre of music that is difficult to learn. The objectives of this investigation were to discuss the process of developing and educating learners in ramwong saxophone in the Suntaraporn style, by giving insights derived from interviews from expert saxophonists and student ramwong music practitioners. Data from interviews and evaluation forms from three purposively selected research informants were analysed. Findings showed that learners of saxophone music for ramwong songs must be familiar with modern saxophone techniques and possess basic knowledge of musical techniques played in traditional Thai music. Four sets of saxophone practice drills were subsequently developed by the researcher and approved as suitable for instruction of ramwong music techniques by the three informants. One practice set was tested by undergraduate musicians. The results and feedback corroborated the beliefs outlined by the three professional saxophonists that rote learning is a necessary component of traditional Thai music teaching.