Angklung


The first image shows a baduj angklung from Djogjakarta, Indonesia. It is an idiophone, a musical instrument which vibrates to make a sound when struck, scraped, or shaken, like a bell, gong, or rattle. 

Angklung is a musical instrument that originates in West Java in Indonesia and is associated with Sudanese culture. They are constructed from bamboo tubes of different sizes that are suspended from a frame and shaken to produce different pitches. Each angklung is tuned to one octave, with small ones playing higher notes and bigger ones playing lower notes. Often each musician will be responsible for one angklung and songs are played collaboratively. Angklung are also played as part of the gamelan ensemble, which is a traditional form of Indonesian music that features interlocking rhythms and melodic patterns. 

 





Resources

Resource 1

YouTube video – Bohemian Rapsody played by Angklung

Traditional Angklung and contemporary Angklung are different in several ways:

  1. Musical style: The music style of contemporary Angklung is often influenced by modern popular music genres, such as rock, pop, and jazz. This can be heard in the rhythm and harmony of the music, as well as in the use of modern instrumentation. Traditional Angklung, on the other hand, is rooted in the traditional music of the Sundanese people of West Java, Indonesia. It is often played as part of traditional ceremonies and festivals and has a distinctive sound characterized by its simple, melodic lines and the interlocking rhythms created by the ensemble of instruments.
  2. Instrumentation: Traditional Angklung is typically played on bamboo tubes of varying sizes that are suspended from a frame and struck with bamboo beaters. Contemporary Angklung may use bamboo tubes, but it may also incorporate other instruments, such as drums, keyboard, and guitar.
  3. Performance venue: Traditional Angklung is typically performed in outdoor settings or in gamelan pavilions. Contemporary Angklung is often performed in more formal settings, such as concert halls and theaters.
  4. Repertoire: Traditional Angklung has a limited repertoire of songs that have been passed down from generation to generation. Contemporary Angklung has a wider repertoire that includes adaptations of traditional songs, as well as original compositions.

Despite these differences, traditional and contemporary Angklung both aim to preserve and promote the cultural heritage of Indonesia, and both styles are valued for their musicality and artistry.

Resource 2

Angklung Program organized by the Indonesian Embassy 

Angklung goes to School 

Angklung performance by elementary school students in the U.S.

The Indonesian government has recognized Angklung as an important part of the country's cultural heritage, and it is included in the national curriculum for music education. Since the 1990s, the Indonesian government has made efforts to promote the teaching and playing of Angklung in schools, and there are now many schools throughout the country that have Angklung ensembles as part of their music programs. The teaching of Angklung is also supported by community-based organizations and private music schools.

There are multi-faceted educational significances of Angklung. It contributes to cultural preservation, as Angklung is an important part of Indonesian culture and heritage. It also contributes to social and emotional learning. Angklung is often played in a group, and requires communication, cooperation, and teamwork.

Lastly, Angklung is increasingly being taught in schools and universities outside of Indonesia, providing opportunities for students to learn about Indonesian culture and engage in cross-cultural learning and exchange. For instance, the Indonesian embassy in the U.S. organized Angklung programs in collaboration with several elementary, middle, and high schools, universities, organizations, communities, and institutions in the U.S.

Resource 3

Museum source

YouTube video

angklung2

Angklung was inscribed by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity on November 18, 2010. It was inscribed in recognition of its cultural significance and value as a traditional musical instrument in Indonesia. The inscription acknowledges the role of Angklung in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Indonesia, as well as its musical, artistic, and educational value.

UNESCO's recognition of Angklung as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity reflects the importance of preserving and promoting traditional cultural expressions, such as music and dance, as they provide a sense of identity and cultural continuity for communities and nations. The inscription also serves to raise awareness of the cultural significance of Angklung and helps to ensure its preservation for future generations.