Author Information
Chanaporn Sangngam, Phuket Rajabhat University, ThailandAbstract
This study examines Nasep music as a crucial cultural mechanism for identity construction and preservation within Muslim communities in southern Thailand. Through ethnomusicological analysis combining structural musical examination with cultural studies methodology, this research reveals how Nasep functions as both artistic expression and social cohesion tool in multicultural Thai society. Employing qualitative research methodology, this case study focuses on the Ramadan ensemble in Santisuk Village, Satun Province. Data collection involved participant observation of performances, audio-visual documentation, and detailed musical analysis of representative songs. Thematic content analysis examined multilingual textual composition and cultural meanings, while structural analysis documented melodic patterns and instrumental arrangements. The investigation demonstrates how Malay musical influences have been adapted within local Islamic religious contexts. Analysis reveals sophisticated techniques including ornamental vocal styling, multilingual composition spanning Malay, Arabic, and Thai languages, and innovative arrangements blending traditional ramana drums with contemporary accordions and bongos. Findings indicate that Nasep serves multiple sociocultural functions beyond entertainment, operating as a medium for religious instruction, community solidarity building, and cultural boundary maintenance. The music's adaptability across ceremonial contexts, from nikah weddings to religious festivals, demonstrates remarkable cultural flexibility while preserving core Islamic values and Malay aesthetic sensibilities. This research offers valuable insights into music's role as cultural capital in multicultural societies, particularly regarding how peripheral communities employ artistic practices to assert identity and resist cultural homogenization in globalization.
Paper Information
Conference: BAMC2025Stream: Cultural Studies
This paper is part of the BAMC2025 Conference Proceedings (View)
Full Paper
View / Download the full paper in a new tab/window
To cite this article:
Sangngam C. (2025) Musical Identity and Cultural Resilience: An Analysis of Nasep Music in Thai Muslim Communities ISSN: 2435-9475 – The Barcelona Conference on Arts, Media & Culture 2025: Official Conference Proceedings (pp. 225-233) https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2435-9475.2025.21
To link to this article: https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2435-9475.2025.21
Comments
Powered by WP LinkPress