Khrueang sai


Wong khrueang sai is a musical ensemble in Thai classical music which consists primarily of string instruments. A typical khrueang sai ensemble features two two-string fiddles, one high and one low, a three-string zither called jakhe, a vertical duct flute called khlui, hand drums, and various cymbals. Depending on the size of the ensemble, instruments may be doubled or left out. A three-string spike fiddle called saw sam sai may be added as well. The khim has become popular and is also used in this ensemble. In the 20th century, Western instruments such as the violin or organ have also occasionally been integrated into khrueang sai ensembles.

Playing context

The khrueang sai is one of the quietest and most intimate ensembles in Thai classical music. It is used to accompany singing, dances, and holidays. It also used in impromptu occasions requiring music.

Varieties

The following are some of the ensemble types, depending on the occasion:
Here is the definition of the khrueang sai according to the NIU South East Asia Studies department:
Sound clips are available at the website above for all Thai ensembles.

Types of ''wong khrueang sai''

Khrueang sai diao

Wong khrueang sai diao is an ensemble consisting of one each of the following instruments:
  1. ching - timekeeper of ensemble
  2. saw duang
  3. saw u
  4. khlui
  5. thon and rammana - secondary timekeeper
  6. jakhe
This kind of ensemble is used when there is limit of space. It is also called wong khrueang sai wong lek or wong khrueang sai khurang diao.

Khrueang sai khu

Wong khrueang sai khu is an ensemble consisting of instruments as described in the khrueang sai diao ensemble, but double in number. It is also called wong khrueang sai wong yai.

Khrueang sai prasom

Wong khrueang sai prasom is an ensemble arranged by mixing khrueang sai diao or khrueang sai khu with other instruments, such as organ, ranad ek, khim and also mixed with the piphat ensemble to create new ensemble called khrueang sai prasom piphat.

Khrueang sai pi chawa

Wong khrueang sai pi chawa is an ensemble arranged by adding pi chawa, glong khaek, and krap to the wong khrueang sai diao. It is usually played in funeral ceremonies.