Gods, Giants and Monkeys: Thai Music at Southwestern University (profile)

This profile highlights the Thai music program at Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas, founded by Professor Ellsworth Peterson. Beginning with the 1988 symposium Gods, Giants and Monkeys: the Ramakian in the Arts and Culture of Thailand, the program has featured Thai musicians in residence from Srinakharinwirot University and developed an active student ensemble. With a full set of Thai instruments, students—many without prior musical training—have quickly learned to perform piphat, mahori, and kruang sai repertoire for community events, festivals, and media appearances.