ARTS AND CULTURE INFORMATION GATEWAY
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ALAT MUZIK SULING (SERULING)
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Introduction and history
The flute, in the context of the Kadazan-Dusun ethnic community, is a traditional musical instrument in the category of aerophones, a mouth flute type that is shorter in size than the length of a regular flute. It is made of Sumbiling bamboo, which has five or six finger holes known as 'Pongombitan'. The thumb hole is known as 'Molohing Tunturu'. Both ends of the flute are pierced for the flow of blowing from the mouth and the flow of the sound tone produced. The hole for blowing is known as 'Pogunian', and the end of the flute hole (back) is known as 'Pongirusan'.
This flute musical instrument is easier to make compared to other bamboo musical instruments. However, precision is required in its production to ensure that the flute maintains the authenticity of its sound and the manufacturing tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation.
Traditionally, the flute is played by the Kadazan-Dusun ethnic community as a musical instrument that accompanies the mourning period to mark the atmosphere of grief. The soft and melodious tune of the flute is used to accompany feelings of sadness and to pay tribute and evoke beautiful memories of those who have passed away. The sound of the flute not only reflects the feeling of loss but also functions as a sign of self-expression towards loved ones. However, in line with the development of today's contemporary world, it is no longer limited to mourning ceremonies or played only during the mourning period. On the contrary, it is often played in public events such as traditional festivals and weddings, which is an important instrument for contemporary music ensembles.
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The main material used to make a flute is sumbiling bamboo because this type of bamboo is considered softer and easier to pierce. Its quality is also very suitable for producing a good sound, making it an ideal choice for any musical instrument made from bamboo. Usually, rattan as well as trees are used as a bamboo binder in several parts, especially in the thumb hole and the end of the bamboo. It aims to strengthen the structure of the flute, prevent the bamboo from cracking or breaking, and serve as a decorative finish for the flute produced. Meanwhile, the tool used to pierce the flute hole is a small knife or carving tool in a certain position to produce different tones.
This musical instrument is often played solo or accompanied by other musical instruments in traditional dance performances, traditional ceremonies, and public events. During periods of mourning, the flute musician will play solo and sometimes alternate or respond to each other between players so that it lasts for a long period of time. In a contemporary context, the flute produces a soft and melodious sound that creates a calming atmosphere, making it very popular as an accompaniment to folk songs and melodies that describe nature and daily life.
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Reference Source
Pugh-Kitingan, J. (2017). Sources, sounds and meanings of Turali (Noseflute) music in Dusunic cultures of Sabah. Malaysian Journal of Music, 6(2), 1–28. https://doi.org/10.37134/mjm.vol6.2.1.2017
Pugh-Kitingan, J. (2012). Kadazan Dusun. Institut Terjemahan & Buku Malaysia.
Borneo Ensemble. (2024). Universiti Malaysia Sabah
Seruling Alam. (2024). Facebook.
Location
State JKKN Contact Information
Puan Nurshahrinna Syahrial
Cultural Officer
Jabatan Kebudayaan dan Kesenian Negara, Sabah
Kompleks JKKN Sabah,
Jalan Tasik off KM4 Jalan Penampang,
88200 Kota Kinabalu
SABAH
088-205070
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