Alat Musik Kalimantan Tengah: The Sounds of Central Kalimantan
Introduction
Central Kalimantan is one of the provinces that is rich in traditional music. It has a wide range of musical instruments that express the culture of the region. Alat musik Kalimantan Tengah (Central Kalimantan musical instruments) come from various communities in the province, each with its unique sound and characteristic.
The traditional music from Central Kalimantan has a strong connection to the agricultural way of life. The music reflects the daily activities of the farming communities, such as planting, harvesting, and other activities related to the process of producing agriculture. The instruments’ sounds in Kalimantan Tengah are distinct and have been recognised as UNESCO Heritage.
The Musical Instruments of Central Kalimantan
There are many different types of Alat musik Kalimantan Tengah, each with its unique sound. The following are some of the most important instruments in Central Kalimantan’s traditional music:
Tongkungon
Tongkungon is a musical instrument that belongs to the Ngaju Dayak community in Central Kalimantan. It is similar to a xylophone and has 12 bamboo bars arranged in a row that produces a high-pitched sound. The instrument is played by striking the bars with a mallet to produce a melody.
Sape
Sape is a musical instrument that belongs to the Dayak Katingan community in Central Kalimantan. It is a type of lute or stringed instrument, similar to a guitar, but with a different shape, sound, and tuning. The Sape has a pear-shaped body and is carved from a single piece of wood. It has two strings that are tuned differently. The Sape is played by striking the strings with a plectrum or finger to produce a melody.
Gendang
Gendang is the most common percussion instrument in Central Kalimantan’s traditional music. It is a type of drum that comes in various sizes and shapes. The Gendang is made from animal hides that are stretched over a wooden frame. The drummer uses their hands to beat the drum to produce a rhythm.
Tabuhan
Tabuhan is a set of percussion instruments that belong to the Bakumpai community in Central Kalimantan. It consists of various-sized gongs made from bronze or brass that produce a deep and resonant sound. The Tabuhan is played by striking the gongs with a mallet to produce a melody.
The Role of Alat Musik Kalimantan Tengah in the Community
The Alat musik Kalimantan Tengah plays a significant role in the daily life of the communities in Central Kalimantan. It is an essential part of the traditional ceremonies, such as weddings, funerals, and other celebrations. The music represents the cultural heritage of the region and is passed down from generation to generation.
The music also serves a social function by bringing people together and building community spirit. The playing of the musical instrument is a way of expressing love, communicating, and sharing emotions. The traditional music is also taught in schools to preserve the region’s culture and heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the traditional musical instruments in Central Kalimantan?
Central Kalimantan has many traditional musical instruments, including Tongkungon, Sape, Gendang, and Tabuhan.
What is the significance of Alat Musik Kalimantan Tengah in the community?
The Alat musik Kalimantan Tengah is an integral part of the cultural heritage of the region. It represents their way of life, communicates emotions, and brings people together.
How is the traditional music in Central Kalimantan passed down from generation to generation?
The traditional music is passed down from generation to generation through oral traditions and formal education in schools. Younger generations also learn traditional music by participating in community events and activities.
Is Alat musik Kalimantan Tengah recognised as UNESCO Heritage?
Yes, the Alat musik Kalimantan Tengah is recognised as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. It is a testament to the cultural richness of the region and its contribution to the world’s traditional music.
Conclusion
Alat musik Kalimantan Tengah plays a vital role in Central Kalimantan’s culture and heritage. It represents their way of life, communicates emotions, and brings people together. The traditional music is passed down from generation to generation to preserve the region’s cultural heritage. It is no wonder that the UNESCO recognised the central Kalimantan’s music as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. With its unique sound and characteristic, the Alat musik Kalimantan Tengah will continue to play an essential role in the communities’ daily life and celebrations in Central Kalimantan for many more years.
