The Instruction of Folk Music Major (Mor Lam): A Case Study of College of Music, Mahasarakham University

Abstract

The article titled “The Instruction of Mor Lam Performing Arts: A Case Study of College of Music, Mahasarakham University” aims to investigate the program and instructional pattern and practice of the Mor Lam Performing Arts Program at College of Music, Mahasarakham University. The study employs the qualitative research methodology based on a documentary study, observation and interviews. The key informants comprise 3 lecturers, a folk music expert, an associate dean for academic affairs, a program chair and 4 students in the program. The findings reveal the following:

The Mor Lam Performing Arts Program at College of Music, Mahasarakham University, is the first of its kind to offer a Bachelor’s program in this specific field. The program structure follows the model issued by the university and the Office of the Higher Education Commission and features practicum courses in every semester on top of theoretical and practical courses related to Isan music, western music and Thai classical music.

Two instructional patterns are implemented: group instruction and one-on-one instruction. Group instruction is conducted based on the students’ class levels and the contents specified in the lessons. The lecturer of each class gives a lyric to the students in advance to memorize. In class, the lecturer sings the whole lyric once to the students before teaching them to sing it a line at a time, going back and forth to review the lesson at intervals. Then students are given time to practice on their own. Before the class is dismissed, the lecturer and the students sing the entire piece together and record the singing so that the students can take it home for further practices. One-on-one instruction is conducted based on the students’ individual appointments with the lecturer to adjust their singing techniques, correct their mistakes and receive advice on appropriate approaches from the lecturer. To give the students’ scores, the lecturer observes their learning behavior and development in class.

In addition, midterm and final assessments of the students are conducted by holding performances for a panel of committee, a real audience and external experts. The results of the research found that the students were able to apply the advice from the judges to make improvements for good performances.