An Orchestration Study of Myanmar Saing Waing Ensemble

Abstract

Saing waing, Myanmar's traditional music ensemble, represents a rich cultural heritage with untapped potential for innovation in composition and orchestration. Despite its readiness for new music and art forms, creative and orchestration crafts lag behind. This study aims to support composers and younger musicians by providing: 1) a detailed analysis and description of Myanmar saing waing instruments, and 2) an explanation of orchestration techniques in composing new saing waing music, demonstrated through the example piece "Gazing Bagan." The information and orchestrating knowledge are collected by 1) intensive literature review, 2) interviews and study with the saing waing musicians, and 3) recording and transcribing musical fragments and classical works. The research involves an intensive literature review, interviews with saing waing musicians, and recording and transcribing musical fragments and classical works. The key findings are 1) A detailed analysis, including diagrams, illustrations, and idiomatic playing techniques of saing waing instruments. 2) A comprehensive discussion of traditional orchestration practices for the saing waing ensemble, derived from classical works. 3) An innovative approach to orchestrating the saing waing ensemble, illustrated through "Gazing Bagan." This study provides valuable insights and practical knowledge for composers, researchers, and young musicians wishing to create new works using saing waing instruments or the entire ensemble. This research bridges traditional and contemporary practices, fostering new creative directions for Myanmar's musical heritage.