(b Thonburi, Thailand, 1881; d 1938). One of the two most highly-regarded central Thai musicians during the reigns of Rama V, VI and VII (see also Phairau, Luang Pradit). His parents and grandparents were musicians; their home near the bank of the Chao Phraya River in Thonburi was famous as a house of music. He directed the pī phāt ensemble at the Bang Khun Phrom Palace, home of Prince Boriphat, half-brother to King Rama V; this ensemble, known for its virtuosity, made some ten recordings (on 78 r.p.m. records). The title ‘Cangwang’ was conferred on him by Prince Boriphat. He was considered equally good on virtually all instruments and composed a large number of musical works; at least 15 are still played today. His performance style, as passed on to his students, is known as the Thonburi style; his descendants still live in his house and his grandchildren direct a pī phāt ensemble regarded as carrying on his style.
DEBORAH WONG