Thailand is known for its strong and durable drums that produce a large range of sounds. The village Ekkarat in Thailand is a centrally located village that sits amidst rich culture and history. It follows naturally therefore that the inhabitants of this village have been well versed with musical instruments since olden times. It is also famous for having served as an important garrison town during the Ayutthaya period. The village can be seen from onboard a Chao Praya Cruise along the river which takes visitors through the detailed and rich heritage of the country. Visitors to Thailand staying at certain resorts also have the convenient option of paying a quick visit to this unique and historically significant village through cruises organised by their hosts, such as the Anantara cruises, arranged by the namesake hotel.
The famous reputation of this village is said to have been built on the account of one Phoem Phupradit, who was the founder of a traditional Thai band. It is said that he made a drum to be used in his band which turned out to be a splendid accomplishment, capable of creating a rather impressive sound. The music that ensued was much appreciated by other bands, and so the village’s reputation of being known for producing high quality drums, spread far and wide. With demand for the drums on the rise, Phoem taught seven of his followers the art of drum making. Even though the band itself dispersed after Phoem’s death, the art of drum making continued to be handed down through generations and still exists to this day.
Several types of drums are made in Ekkarat today, including the Klong, Japanese, Klong Yao, Klong Rammana and Klong Cham-pe drums. Should you visit this lovely island, you could purchase a drum as a souvenir to remind you of the country’s timeless traditions.
Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe. Google+
