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GENDANG DAN KOMPANG DI KEDAH
Kumpulan Hadrah Seni Warisan
Kampung Farhana, Mukim Binjal
06000 Jitra, Kubang Pasu, Kedah.
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Introduction and history
The gendang (drum) and kompang are two traditional musical instruments with a long history in the Malay community of Kedah, reflecting a rich and unique cultural heritage. The gendang is recognized as a primary percussion instrument often played during various events such as weddings, traditional ceremonies, and religious gatherings. According to research by Mohd Ghouse Nasuruddin (2014), the gendang is believed to have been introduced to the Malay Peninsula through Hindu-Buddhist influences before evolving with Islamic elements brought by Arab and Indian traders. The shape and playing style of the gendang are often closely linked to royal customs in Kedah, where it serves as a symbol of respect during grand occasions.
The kompang, on the other hand, is more synonymous with Islamic traditions and plays a significant role in accompanying selawat (praises) and devotional songs during religious events. It is believed to have originated from the Arab world and was introduced to the region by Islamic traders and missionaries in the 13th century. The kompang serves not only as a musical instrument but also as a medium for religious propagation (dakwah) and community unity, as highlighted in research by Siti Hawa Haji Salleh (2002). In Kedah, the tradition of playing the kompang has become part of the cultural identity, with its rhythms often adapted to reflect local values.
Traditional music in Kedah, such as the gendang and kompang, plays a vital role in shaping the culture and identity of the local community. The gendang, which consists of the gendang ibu (mother drum) and gendang anak (child drum), is used in various performances such as wayang kulit (shadow puppetry), zapin dances, and official royal ceremonies. It functions as the main rhythm driver, unifying other musical elements in a performance while enhancing the atmosphere and energy of an event. The kompang, on the other hand, is more closely associated with religious and social events such as weddings, Maulidur Rasul celebrations, and traditional processions. Its role extends beyond being a musical instrument to serving as a medium for conveying religious messages through selawat and praises.
Additionally, the gendang and kompang function as traditional communication tools within the Malay community of Kedah. For instance, the sound of the gendang can signify the presence of an important ceremony, while the kompang is used to gather the community for collective activities. These instruments also symbolize community unity, where the collective effort of creating harmonious rhythms reflects the spirit of cooperation. As noted by Mohd Ghouse Nasuruddin (2014) in his book Seni Persembahan Melayu (Malay Performing Arts), traditional music such as the gendang and kompang serves as a medium that unites art, culture, and religion, making it a symbol of Malay identity.
The performers of the gendang and kompang typically wear traditional Malay attire such as baju Melayu cekak musang or teluk belanga, paired with samping songket wrapped neatly around the waist. A tanjak or tengkolok (traditional Malay headgear) is often worn by male performers, symbolizing the grandeur of Malay cultural arts. The colors of the costumes are often symbolic, such as yellow to represent royalty or red to signify bravery.
The design of the attire also emphasizes comfort, as musicians need freedom of movement while playing their instruments. The fabrics used are usually lightweight, such as cotton or satin, but still showcase aesthetic elements through traditional songket patterns or embroidery.
The main musical instruments are the gendang and kompang, though additional instruments such as the accordion, violin, and others are sometimes included.
Several gendang and kompang musical groups exist in Kedah, typically comprising members of various age groups. These groups usually consist of 20 to 30 members, divided into four smaller teams. One notable group is led by Encik Mat Khir bin Ibrahim, who also serves as the group's instructor.
Reference Source
i. Bahan Bacaan
Mohd Ghouse Nasuruddin. (2014). Seni Persembahan Melayu. Kuala Lumpur: Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka.
Siti Hawa Haji Salleh. (2002). Kesusasteraan Melayu Tradisional. Kuala Lumpur: Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka.
Wan Abdul Kadir Wan Yusoff. (1990). Seni Budaya Melayu: Suatu Penghargaan. Kuala Lumpur: Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka.
Siti Zainon Ismail. (2006). Seni dan Tradisi Melayu: Suatu Tinjauan. Bangi: Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Press.
Mohd Anis Md Nor. (1986). Muzik Tradisional Melayu: Kesenian dan Warisan. Kuala Lumpur: Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka.
Location
State JKKN Contact Information
Encik Mohammad Salleh bin Mahmud
Cultural Officer
Jabatan Kebudayaan dan Kesenian Negara, Kedah
Kompleks JKKN Kedah
Lot PTD 400, Pumpong
05250 Alor Setar
KEDAH DARUL AMAN
011-10899646
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