The Art of Music
Common forms of Indonesian musical instruments are presented here— drums, gongs and stringed instruments. All were commonly played in gamelan–the Indonesian percussive orchestra. Gamelan is the most popular and famous form of Indonesian music. It is integral to ceremonies, rituals, dances, and the wayang theatre. Some compositions were believed to possess magical power that could ward off evil spirits.
Indonesian music is governed by formal rules, including pieces that start and end concerts. This serves to cue the audience that the performance is coming to an end and it is time to leave
Thai Thon or Goblet Drum
20th Century
This drum is usually played with a smaller, higher pitched drum called a
rammana.
Faith White Collection
(HM4979)
Thai Saw Samsai
Late 19th to early 20th centuries
This three-stringed lute form has been used in the Thai string ensemble since the Sukhothai period in the 1350s. It is played only in the Mahori ensemble and is sometimes used to accompany a King’s ceremony.
Faith White Collection
(HM5664)
Thai Saw U
Late-19th to Early-20th Centuries
The two strings of this instrument are tuned to a low and a high pitch.
Faith White Collection
(HM5666)
Thai Taphon
Late-19th to Early-20th Centuries
This traditional Thai barrel shaped drum is played by the hands and fingers on both ends of the drum.
Faith White Collection
(HM5667)
Cymbals
Late-19th to Early-20th Centuries
This a common percussion instrument made from metal discs.
Faith White Collection
(HM5668)
Indonesian Rain Drum
This drum is cast in bronze using the lost wax casting method. Rain drums were traditionally used in ceremonies and some were used to
call soldiers to war.
Nancy and Roger Prince Collection
(HM8888)