Chiang Yeun Pat Gong Ensemble, Chiang Mai Province

Abstract

This research aimed to (1) examine the history and development of the Chiang Yeun Pat Gong Ensemble in Chiang Mai Province, and
(2) investigate the ensemble's socio-cultural roles within the province.
A qualitative methodology guided by a phenomenological approach
was employed. The findings reveal that the ensemble was established around 1947 to preserve folk music and revive Lanna ceremonial practices, particularly the Fon Phi Meng ritual. Influenced by the Central Thai Pi Phat tradition during the era of Princess Consort Dara Rasami and transmitted through Master Rot Aksontap, Central Thai instruments were integrated with Lanna instruments while the original ensemble structure and tonality were retained. Today, the Chiang Yeun Pat Gong Ensemble remains the only ensemble in Chiang Mai that performs without Western instruments. Musical knowledge is transmitted orally through community networks. The ensemble's identity is anchored in four foundational ritual pieces: Phleng Chat, Phleng Kula, Phleng Long Khuang, and Phleng Phi Mot Kin Nam Maphrao. Serving as the ceremonial leader of the Fon Phi Meng ritual, the ensemble mediates between the human and spirit worlds, while also participating in religious ceremonies and local festivals. Its continued existence reflects the community's capacity to sustain a musical heritage of deep spiritual and cultural significance within the Lanna tradition.