biG focus
Bringing music to Life
Music is a universal language. It is an exercise in human creativity, a mode for expression and storytelling. It is a therapeutic retreat that we all need (often!) in order to get by, and often just a good and fun way to spend your time when you need to unwind. Borneans are no exception and over the centuries have crafted instruments all their own. Here are a few of the more recognisable and popular traditional instruments used by indigenous groups throughout the world’s third largest island.
SAPE Popular across all Borneo generally, and Sarawak specifically – the Sape – which is carved from a single bole of wood, is a four-stringed member of the lute family. Used by various Orang Ulu groups such as the Kayan, Kelabit, Kenyah, and Penan, it has an elongated body, a short neck, and is often made from durable and lightweight Meranti. The hollow interior acts as a resonator, and before craftsman started using nylon for the strings, they used strings made from the Sago tree. Its Sabahan counterpart is the long-necked Sundatang lute.
TONGKUNGON/TOGUNGGAK Belonging to the idiophone class of instruments made of resonant solid material – such as wood, stone, metal – the wooden Togunggak are mainly played solo for personal entertainment. However, in the absence of gong ensembles it can be played for dancing processions and festivals. Used primarily by the Dusun, Kadazan, and Murut groups, a single set can range between 6 to 30 individual pieces.
GULINGTANGAN Popular in Brunei and often played during events in modern day times, as well as ceremonies, festivals, and royal court functions back in the day, the instrument can either be played solo or assume the lead role as part of the Gulingtangan Orchestra. The lengthy row of brass gongs are struck, producing high to low pitch tones, while the other four instruments – gongs, tawak-tawak, gandang labik, and the canang – act as beat-pacers. Part of the wider Southeast Asia gong-chime culture, Gulingtangan variants across the region have existed for centuries.
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Borneo.Insider’s.Guide
