“Dances of a Hill Tribe” (for two violins and invisible drums)

Abstract

Abstract

               This article is an analysis of a composition entitled “Dances of a Hill Tribe” for two violins and invisible drums.  Through out the writing, the composer demonstrates how he applies inspiration and raw material into the work. The result is a piece that represents two dancers dance together in three sections and accompanied by invisible drums.

            The work was commissioned by Ensemble TIMF and the Thailand International Composition Festival 2006.  The piece was also premiered at the festival by the ensemble.  The composition was inspired by a rhythmic pattern of a Maew dance, which is a dance of a hill tribe called Mong.  It is a dance that Mekara first saw when he was a young boy at a local temple’s fair.  There was a parade let by a group of Mong tribe dancers.  They were dancing synchronized and opposite each other in two rows.  The dance was accompanied by a group of drummers who played a very exciting drum pattern.  It was his first impression of the dance and its music, especially the rhythmic pattern.  In this article, the writer will explain how the composer uses this rhythmic pattern in this composition.