Music of Thailand

Dontri Thai doem, which is Thai classical music, was originally played at court. It is split up into three types of orchestral groups: a percussion-dominated ensemble (pi phat) ; a string-dominated ensemble (kruang sai) ; and mahori, a mixed ensemble that often co-occurs with vocalists (mahori). Khon, which is a classical dance is often don to classical Thai music. The music played by these orchestras popularly use a scale of seven equidistant tone-steps. However, some may use additional tones. Classical music and dance are seen as high valued symbols of 'national heritage'.

An even more popular genre than Thai classical music, is phlaeng luk thung (translates to songs of the children of the fields). This is a type of Thai country music that came from rural Thailand. Western pop, rock, and rap also heavily influence the music of Thailand more specifically in Bangkok and other urban areas.

The lamwong or circle dance is the most popular form of dance at temple festivals and other celebrations. It usually is performed to mawlam or luk thung music.