Khruang sai

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Khruang sai is a musical ensemble in Thai classical music which consists primarily of string instruments. A typical khruang sai ensemble features two two-string fiddles, one high and one low (saw duang and saw ou), a three-string zither called jakhe, a vertical flute called khlui, hand drums, and various cymbals. Depending on the size of the ensemble, instruments may be doubled or left out. A three-string spike fiddle called saw sam sai may be added as well. The khim (hammered dulcimer) has become popular and is also used in this ensemble. In the 20th century, western instruments such as the violin or organ have also occasionally been integrated into khruang sai ensembles.

The khruang sai is one of the quietest and most intimate ensembles in Thai classical music. It is used to accompany singing, dances, and holidays. It also used in impromptu occasions requiring music. The following is some of the ensemble types depeding on the occasion:

• Khryang Sai Wong Lek
• Khryang Sai Khryang Khu
• Khryang Sai Pi Chawa
• Khryang Sai Prasom [1]

Here is the definition of the khruang sai according to the NIU South East Asia Studies department:

Wong Khryang Sai (Khryang Sai = String ensemble): The String ensemble consists of saw-duang]], saw-u, Jakhae, Khlui, and the set of percussion instruments: Ching, Chab, Thone-Ram Mana and Mong. This ensemble is further divided into four kinds in accordance with its size and different instruments as shown above.

Sound clips are available at the website above for all Thai ensembles.