“Serampang Laut” is a Malay traditional song whose Joget tune has its origin in the Portuguese folk dance. Malay music is much influenced by early settlers such as the Indian, Portuguese, Dutch, Chinese, Arab, Indonesian and British.
When you look at the Malay orchestra, you will notice that there are some Western instruments such as the violin, flute and accordion. Malay music in Singapore and Malaysia has evolved greatly since the early settlers arrived in these countries. The Malay orchestra now performs with a wider variety of instruments including Western instruments. But what are some of the original Malay musical instruments?
Malay musical instruments are classified under 4 categories: Chordophones*, Membranophones, Idiophones and Aerophones.
*Chordophones are string instruments such as Gambus and Rebab.
Gambus
Gambus is a plucked string instrument which originates from the Middle East. It is a common lute, which is played in Malay music compositions. There are two types of gambus, Gambus Hijaz and Gambus Hadramaut. Gambus Hijaz is elongated while Gambus Hadramaut is shaped like a cut pear. (Listen to the sound of the Gambus here.)
Rebab is a two-stringed fiddle. The Rebab has an almost heart-shaped chassis made entirely of wood. The strings are usually made of copper. It’s usually played on its own to accompany the performance of the Wayang Kulit (or Shadow Puppets). The Chinese equivalent of the Rebab is the Erhu. (Listen to the sound of the Rebab here.)
In the past, the Rebana was not only utilized as a musical tool but also as functioned as a sort of primitive loudspeaker. Wedding announcements, danger warnings and other newsworthy items were drummed out using different beats of the Rebana. Nowadays, the Rebana kompang entourage is often seen accompanying the bride and groom at Malay weddings.
*Aerophones are wind instruments like Seruling.
Seruling
Seruling or the Malay flute has different numbers of holes and often blown across the edge and held straight. It is played either in an ensemble or alone. (Listen to the sound of the Seruling here.)
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