Roles of Music for Community : A Case Study of Lan Ta Heng Band

Abstract

This research is to study and present the history of development and the role of Lan Ta Heng Band on community and society. By gathers information from interviews and participation as a member of the band. The research results were found that Lan Ta Heng Band was established in the year 1989 by the group of person that have a passion for musical and performing. starting with the first name as "Look Phor Phra Karn Group" and in year 1993 changed the name to “Lan Ta Heng Band”. The music styles and performances of Lan Ta Heng band have been adjusted to meet the needs of music employers and the context of social change. Since the era of Khra Tua Tang Sua, Look Phor Phra Karn Group to the era of long drum Disciple of Lan Ta Heng Until the present era of applied harp. Lan Ta Heng Band has roles in the community and society in 6 aspects as follow Beliefs and rituals, Society Comunication/ Provide information and news, Entertainment Creation, The wisdom heritage Conservation, Knowledge inheritance and being a cultural learning center. Which is considered to reflect the musical culture that has an important roles and duties for dynamically powered of people, communities and society.