SEJARAH GAMBANG KROMONG dan KATEGORI LAGU

Summary

In this video, Iman Firmansyah explores the rich history of Gambang Kromong, a traditional music form in Indonesia. Tracing its origins to the 17th century, he discusses how the Chinese-Fujian community in Batavia developed this unique genre, blending indigenous and Chinese instruments. The video covers the evolution of Gambang Kromong music, from its classical roots with minimal instrumentation in the 18th century to the more modern and vibrant styles in the 20th century, particularly through the influence of Benyamin Sueb. The script delves into the different categories of Gambang Kromong songs and their key features, highlighting cultural and musical significance.

Takeaways

• 😀 Gambang Kromong originated from the Hokkien culture of the Fujian province in China, brought to Batavia (Jakarta) in the 17th century by Chinese immigrants.
• 😀 The initial Gambang Kromong ensemble consisted of Chinese wind instruments like a side flute, a string instrument, and a percussive instrument resembling a xylophone, later evolving into the Gambang.
• 😀 The development of Gambang Kromong music is closely tied to its repertoire, which includes the traditional 'Lagu Dalam' or 'Lagu Lama' (Old Songs).
• 😀 'Lagu Dalam' or 'Lagu Lama' songs, which date back to the 18th century, feature minimalistic instrumentation dominated by stringed instruments like cukong, ayan, and tehyan, often accompanied by a trumpet or woodblock.
• 😀 'Lagu Dalam' songs typically last between 10 to 15 minutes, with each instrument playing a similar melody but with variations.
• 😀 The 'Lagu Sayur' genre, popular in the early 19th century, introduced indigenous instruments like drums and gongs, resulting in more lively and varied music with melodies that are less uniform than in 'Lagu Dalam'.
• 😀 The 'Lagu Sayur' songs, unlike the slower 'Lagu Dalam', are generally faster and more energetic, with examples including 'Kicir-Kicir' and 'Jali-Jali'.
• 😀 The genre 'Lagu Modern' emerged in the 1970s, popularized by Benyamin Sueb, who fused pop music with the traditional Gambang Kromong ensemble.
• 😀 In the 'Lagu Modern' genre, songs became shorter (around 2 to 4 minutes), with a pop structure that includes verses, a chorus, and an intro, all performed with Gambang Kromong instrumentation.
• 😀 Benyamin Sueb's work, like songs such as 'Tukang Sayur' and 'Tukang Sado', significantly contributed to the modernization of Gambang Kromong and its introduction into the film and recording industries.

Q & A

What is Gambang Kromong and where did it originate?

Gambang Kromong is a traditional Indonesian musical ensemble that originated from the Hokkien Chinese community in Batavia (now Jakarta) around the 17th century. It combines various instruments, including wind, string, and percussion instruments.

What instruments are typically used in a Gambang Kromong ensemble?

The Gambang Kromong ensemble originally included a wind instrument similar to a Chinese flute, a string instrument, and a percussion instrument. The most notable is the Gambang, a wooden percussion instrument similar to a xylophone, which is struck with mallets.

What are the different categories of Gambang Kromong songs?

There are three main categories of Gambang Kromong songs: Lagu Dalam (or Lagu Lama), Lagu Sayur, and Lagu Modern. Each category represents different historical periods and musical styles.

What defines Lagu Dalam or Lagu Lama?

Lagu Dalam, also known as Lagu Lama, refers to the classical songs of the Gambang Kromong ensemble that developed in the 18th century. These songs are typically more minimalistic in instrumentation, focusing on string instruments and Gambang, with long, slow melodies.

How long do Lagu Dalam songs typically last, and what is their musical structure?

Lagu Dalam songs usually last between 10-15 minutes, with each instrument playing the same melody together but with different phrasing. The music is generally calm and has a longer duration compared to other types of songs.

What is the significance of Lagu Sayur in the Gambang Kromong tradition?

Lagu Sayur, which emerged in the early 19th century, is considered 'everyday' music for Gambang Kromong players. It incorporates indigenous instruments like gendang (drums), gong, and track, and has a more lively, rhythmic style compared to Lagu Dalam.

What is the musical character of Lagu Sayur?

Lagu Sayur has a more dynamic and rhythmic style. The melodies are more vibrant, with a prominent percussion section that contrasts with the calmer melodies. Each instrument plays its version of the melody, with variations called Liao.

When did modern Gambang Kromong music emerge, and who was instrumental in its development?

Modern Gambang Kromong music emerged in the 1970s, with Benyamin Sueb playing a key role in popularizing the genre. He introduced pop elements into Gambang Kromong and brought it into the entertainment industry, making it more accessible to a wider audience.

How did the structure of Gambang Kromong songs change in the modern era?

In the modern era, the structure of Gambang Kromong songs became more aligned with popular music formats. The songs became shorter (2-4 minutes), with pop-style verses, choruses, and intros, while still being accompanied by traditional Gambang Kromong instruments.

Can you name some modern Gambang Kromong songs and their themes?

Some modern Gambang Kromong songs include 'Hujan Gerimis,' 'Sangbango,' and 'Tukang Sayur.' These songs often have everyday themes, with a lively musical arrangement that blends traditional and pop elements.