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Conch Shell Trumpet in Contemporary Music: Invention and Playing Techniques

22 August 2024

15:30 - 16:00 hrs (GMT+7)

Pariphon Dinlansagoon

Dr. Panravee Pongvatnanusorn

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This research primarily aims to explore and understand the history, creation, and techniques for developing the conch shell trumpet to suit its application in contemporary music. The study takes a creative approach, encompassing the collection and analysis of traditional conch shell trumpet playing techniques alongside newly developed methods to establish effective performance approaches within contemporary music contexts. Furthermore, the research emphasizes the creation and evaluation of the conch shell trumpet's potential by making it easier to play and expanding its versatility, thereby promoting its broader use in contemporary music.


The creative process in this research is a collaborative effort, divided into two main dimensions: the technical construction and development of the conch shell trumpet to align with contemporary music requirements and the analysis of playing techniques through comparisons between traditional and newly developed methods. This was achieved through interviews and performance trials with experienced musicians. The research involved studying books, articles, and various sources of information, as well as conducting interviews with experts in the creation and performance of conch shell trumpets. The researcher conducted trials in constructing the conch shell trumpet using high-quality shells, testing sound production, and exploring new playing techniques, with adjustments and further development, including additional hole drilling to discover suitable new notes and sounds.

The results of this research aim to blend ancient musical instruments with modern ones, focusing on achieving harmony in both performance and sound. This study successfully establishes guidelines for the effective development of the conch shell trumpet and its playing techniques within contemporary music. Additionally, this effort promotes the instrument's growing role in modern musical contexts. The research also inspires musicians and instrument makers to experiment with and explore new possibilities for integrating the conch shell trumpet into modern musical compositions.

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