Traditional Music

Musical traditions are as diverse as the population, but the one musical expression best known and most widely associated with the country in probably the gamelan. A complete gamelan orchestra may consist of as many as eighty instruments, the largest part comprising various types and sizes metal percussion instruments. Drums, a zither (celempung), a rebab two-stringed upright lute, a flute and often a few other instruments complete the ensemble.

Although there are variations known within each, the gamelan orchestra is basically tuned to two systems, the old pentatonic slendro and younger seventone pelog, each producing its own mood and having its own uses in the musical or theatrical repertoire. The most elaborate form of gamelan is that of Central Java (Yogyakarta and Surakarta). West Java has it own gamelan ensemble, usually simpler than the bonang family of horizontally placed kettle gongs.

Bamboo xylophones are used in North Sulawesi and the bamboo "angklung" instruments of West Java are well known for their unique thinking notes which can be adapted to any melody. The Bataks of North Sumatra are famous for their popular singing groups who today entertain visitors in many international hotels.