Alat Musik Tradisional Kalimantan
Kalimantan, the fourth largest island in the world, is located in the center of Indonesia. It is rich in natural resources, diverse cultures, and unique traditional musical instruments. The traditional music of Kalimantan is influenced by the local ethnic groups, such as the Dayak, Banjar, and Malay. The traditional music is usually performed in religious ceremonies, social events, and traditional festivals. In this article, we will explore the traditional musical instruments of Kalimantan and their unique characteristics.
1. Sasando
Sasando is a traditional stringed musical instrument from Rote Island, East Nusa Tenggara Province. It is made of palm leaves, bamboo, and other natural materials. Sasando has a unique shape, just like a fan, with strings stretched horizontally across it. The instrument is played by plucking the strings with the fingers, and the sound is amplified by the hollow body of the sasando.
Sasando is commonly used in traditional festivals and ceremonies in Kalimantan. Its soothing sound is believed to have healing properties and can calm the mind and soul.
2. Sampe
Sampe is a traditional bamboo musical instrument from the Dayak ethnic group in Kalimantan. It is made of a hollow bamboo tube with seven finger holes and one blowing hole. The sound is produced by blowing into the tube and covering or uncovering the finger holes. The tone of the instrument is deep and muted, creating a unique melody.
Sampe is usually played during traditional Dayak ceremonies, such as Gawai Dayak, to express gratitude to the spirits and ancestors. The instrument is also used to accompany traditional dances and songs.
3. Gong
Gong is a large metal musical instrument that produces a deep, resonant sound. It is commonly used in traditional music in Southeast Asia, including in Kalimantan. The gong is made of bronze or brass and has a flat surface with a raised center. The gong is struck with a mallet to produce a unique and distinct tone.
Gong is commonly used in traditional Dayak ceremonies and festivals, such as Gawai Dayak and Gawai Kenyalang. The sound of the gong is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck and prosperity.
4. Kuda Lumping
Kuda Lumping is a traditional dance and music performance from Java that has spread to other parts of Indonesia, including Kalimantan. The performance involves dancers riding toy horses made of bamboo or rattan, adorned with colorful fabrics and ornaments. The dancers move in a synchronized manner to the beat of traditional music, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.
The music for Kuda Lumping performance often uses traditional Indonesian instruments, such as gamelan, kendang, and suling. The performance is usually held during traditional festivals and events, such as the Independence Day celebration.
5. Gambus
Gambus is a traditional stringed musical instrument from the Arab culture, commonly used in Islamic music. Gambus has a pear-shaped body with a long neck and five or six strings made of gut or nylon. The instrument is played with a plectrum or a finger, producing a unique and soothing sound.
Gambus has been adopted in Kalimantan and is commonly used in Islamic ceremonies and religious events. The instrument is also used in traditional music fusion, creating a blend of Arab and Indonesian music.
FAQs
Q: What is the traditional music of Kalimantan like?
A: The traditional music of Kalimantan is diverse, reflecting the different ethnic groups and cultures. The music is usually played during religious ceremonies, social events, and traditional festivals.
Q: What are some common traditional musical instruments in Kalimantan?
A: Some of the common traditional musical instruments in Kalimantan are sasando, sampe, gong, kuda lumping, and gambus.
Q: What is Sasando made of?
A: Sasando is made of palm leaves, bamboo, and other natural materials.
Q: What is the unique characteristic of Sampe?
A: Sampe is made of a hollow bamboo tube with seven finger holes and one blowing hole. The sound is produced by blowing into the tube and covering or uncovering the finger holes. The tone of the instrument is deep and muted, creating a unique melody.
Q: What is the significance of Gong in traditional Dayak ceremonies?
A: The sound of the gong is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck and prosperity.
Q: What is Kuda Lumping performance?
A: Kuda Lumping is a traditional dance and music performance from Java that has spread to other parts of Indonesia, including Kalimantan. The performance involves dancers riding toy horses made of bamboo or rattan, adorned with colorful fabrics and ornaments.
Q: What is the unique characteristic of Gambus?
A: Gambus has a pear-shaped body with a long neck and five or six strings made of gut or nylon. The instrument is played with a plectrum or a finger, producing a unique and soothing sound.
Conclusion
The traditional music of Kalimantan is a testament to the rich cultural diversity and heritage of Indonesia. The musical instruments and performances are unique and distinct, reflecting the different ethnic groups and cultures. The music has been passed down through generations and continues to thrive today, enriching the cultural landscape of Kalimantan and Indonesia as a whole.
