Khaen-dle (Seven Flutes)

Khaen-dle (2023/2025)
For Seven Flutes

Khaen-dle for Seven Flutes fuses the essence of two cultural elements: Khaen, the bamboo free-reed mouth organ in the Northeast Thailand and Laos region, and the symbolic illumination of candles in Thai tradition. This composition translates the distinctive qualities of the Khaen into the melodic and harmonic realm through the sounds of seven flutes. Composed from the Thai melodic mode (lai), the piece weaves a tapestry of alternating sections, each with its own emotive resonance.

As night falls, the musical scene unfolds, illuminated by the soft glow of candles. Against this backdrop, the flute soloist emerges, their melody echoing through the night. Transitioning into a lively dance section, the flute ensemble splits into two groups, mirroring the rhythmic interplay of two Khaen instruments.

In the midst of the music, a moment of reflection emerges, with the flute soloist accompanied by an echo from the ensemble, adding layers of depth to the harmonic landscape. As the journey reaches its climax, the music returns to the spirited dance, culminating in a triumphant crescendo of sonorous Khaen-like flute tones.

Khaen-dle was originally commissioned by Mahidol University Trumpet Studio and performed in International Trumpet Guild Conference 2023, United States.