JENIS JENIS TEMBANG JAWA

Summary

This video introduces the different types of Javanese tembang, or songs, also known as Sekar in Javanese. Tembang is a traditional literary work bound by specific rules, including Laras (tone) and various patterns like guru gotro, guru wilangan, and guru lagu. The video highlights three major categories of tembang: tembang gede (classical tembang), tembang tengahan (mid-tembang), and tembang mocopat, with examples and historical context. Tembang mocopat, especially, is explained as a series of songs reflecting human life, providing wisdom and teachings on morality and spirituality.

Takeaways

• 😀 Tembang Jawa is a form of Javanese poetry or song, also called Sekar or Kromo, based on specific musical rules.
• 😀 The key rules for composing Tembang Jawa are Guru Gotro, Guru Wilangan, and Guru Lagu, which govern its structure and rhythm.
• 😀 Tembang Gede, or classical songs, are used in grand performances like Wayang and are accompanied by gamelan music.
• 😀 Examples of Tembang Gede include Usuwastuti, Citeng, and Candr Kusumo.
• 😀 Tembang Tengahan, or mid-tempo songs, were traditionally written in ancient Javanese script and language.
• 😀 Tembang Mocopat consists of 11 specific types, reflecting the stages of human life, such as Mijil, Kinanti, and Sinom.
• 😀 Tembang Mocopat is not accompanied by gamelan music but has a specific melodic structure.
• 😀 Tembang Jawa contains wise teachings on values such as morality, thoughtfulness, and spiritual development.
• 😀 The purpose of Tembang Jawa was to sharpen the mind and spirit of the listener, often conveyed through music and poetry.
• 😀 The practice of singing or reciting Tembang Jawa was common during the Majapahit era and continued to be influential during the Sultan Agung's reign.

Q & A

What is the meaning of 'tembang' in Javanese culture?

In Javanese culture, 'tembang' refers to a type of literary work or song composed based on specific musical notes and adhering to rules like 'guru gotro', 'guru wilangan', and 'guru lagu'. It is a form of traditional poetry with deep philosophical meaning.

What are the key components that structure a 'tembang'?

The key components that structure a 'tembang' include 'guru gotro' (the rhythm pattern), 'guru wilangan' (the number of syllables per line), and 'guru lagu' (the melody or vocal pattern). These elements help define the composition of a 'tembang'.

What role do 'tembang' play in Javanese culture?

In Javanese culture, 'tembang' serves not only as a form of artistic expression but also as a tool for imparting wisdom and life lessons. It is often used in ceremonial and performance contexts to convey messages about ethics, philosophy, and the essence of life.

What are the three main types of 'tembang' in Javanese culture?

The three main types of 'tembang' in Javanese culture are 'tembang gede' (also known as classical songs), 'tembang tengah' (middle songs), and 'tembang mocopat' (the 11 songs that convey human life's stages).

What is 'tembang gede' and where is it commonly used?

'Tembang gede' is the classical form of 'tembang' used as an opening or introductory song in performances, often accompanied by gamelan music. It is typically heard in events such as Wayang performances.

How is 'tembang tengah' different from 'tembang gede'?

'Tembang tengah' is written using the Javanese script and was traditionally composed in the old Javanese language. It is more poetic and used for various purposes, including storytelling and personal reflection, but it is not accompanied by gamelan music like 'tembang gede'.

What is 'tembang mocopat' and how many songs does it include?

'Tembang mocopat' is a form of song that follows strict musical and lyrical patterns. Initially, it consisted of nine songs, but after Sultan Agung ascended the throne, it was expanded to 11 songs. These songs represent different stages of human life.

Can you name some examples of 'tembang mocopat' songs?

Examples of 'tembang mocopat' include 'Mijil', 'Kinanti', 'Dandang Gulo', 'Sinom', 'Asmoro Nono', 'Pangkur', 'Durmo', 'Gambuh', 'Mas Kumambang', 'Megatruh', and 'Pocung'.

What is the significance of 'tembang mocopat' in Javanese philosophy?

'Tembang mocopat' is deeply connected to Javanese philosophical thought, reflecting the stages of human life and the lessons learned at each stage. It is considered a way to guide individuals in their spiritual and ethical development.

What are some common themes expressed through 'tembang'?

'Tembang' often explores themes such as wisdom, moral conduct, reflection on life, human behavior, and spiritual understanding. It serves to impart teachings that sharpen the mind and heart, guiding individuals on their life journey.