In Cempuling performances, the musicians' appearance does more than provide a visual identity for the group—it also reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Javanese community, which values modesty, beauty, and harmony. Musicians typically wear traditional or semi-formal attire, depending on the theme of the performance, the nature of the event, and the venue. Common costumes and accessories include:

Baju Melayu with Samping

A full Baju Melayu outfit paired with a samping and songkok is the primary choice, especially for formal occasions such as weddings or state cultural festivals. This attire exudes elegance and respectability, in line with Malay-Javanese cultural values. The colours are often coordinated with the theme of the performance or the group’s official colour scheme.

Batik Shirt with Songkok

Cempuling features a variety of traditional musical instruments, each contributing a unique sound that defines the texture and rhythm of the performance. Among the main instruments are:

Gendang Sunda

A type of drum made from wood and animal hide, producing deep, rhythmic tones. It serves as the foundation of the basic beat in the performance.

Gendang Agong

A large-sized drum known for its resonant and dramatic sound. It plays a leading role during the climactic moments of songs or performances.

Kempul

The kempul is a small hanging gong struck with a padded mallet. It creates a soothing, wave-like sound and functions as a structural marker in the music, often signaling transitions between segments.

Enteng-Enteng (or Eteng-Eteng)

A small percussion instrument that emits a high-pitched tone when struck. It is used to provide rhythmic decoration and accentuation within the musical arrangement.

Kempreng (if included)

A metallic-sounding percussion instrument, used to support the main rhythm and add a layer of complexity to the overall sound texture.

Keyboard

Provides harmonic background and is sometimes used to replicate the tones of traditional instruments, offering versatility in musical layering.

Electric Guitar

Adds depth and a modern touch to the performance by enhancing the background sound and integrating contemporary elements into the ensemble.

These instruments are played in layered group arrangements, producing a sound that is energetic, resonant, and harmonious. Perfect for accompanying advisory-themed songs and traditional dances. Rather than compromising the authenticity of Cempuling, such adaptations highlight the flexibility of traditional art in navigating the challenges of modernity and technological advancement.

A Cempuling performance is typically presented by a group of six to twelve members, including both musicians and vocalists. Each performance is carefully planned, taking into account song arrangement, choice of instruments, costumes, and audience interaction to ensure the experience is meaningful, entertaining, and culturally rich.

The performance usually begins with a musical introduction, where instruments are played in succession, followed by opening songs with either a light-hearted tone or moral messages. Songs are interspersed with folktales, poetic verses (pantun), humorous skits, or life advice, making the show both didactic and entertaining. A lead singer guides each piece, supported by musicians playing traditional percussion instruments, often enhanced with modern touches such as the keyboard or electric guitar to bring a fresh and contemporary appeal.

In addition to singing, Cempuling also incorporates traditional Javanese dance, particularly in cultural events, weddings, circumcision ceremonies, and newborn blessings (cukur jambul). The gentle, flowing movements of the dance follow the rhythm of the music, visually expressing the meaning of the songs and enriching the atmosphere of the event.

The repertoire spans a wide range of themes, from advisory and satirical songs to folk tunes and modern popular hits. Song selection is usually tailored to suit the occasion and audience. Among the most frequently performed songs are:

Piye Kepriye – A humorous and advisory song about laziness and its consequences.

Tombo Ati (Opick) – A spiritual song offering five pathways to inner peace, according to Islamic teachings.

Sekonyong Koder (Didi Kempot) – A folk-style love song infused with wit and charm.

Gajah di Balik Batu (Wali Band) – A modern piece with simple lyrics, popular among youth and ideal for casual performances.

Lemak Manis, Rebutan Aceh, Re Kabare, Yale-Yale – Traditional Javanese songs that reflect local culture and are often requested by audiences.

Whether classic or modern, each song carries a meaningful message, positioning Cempuling not merely as entertainment but as a medium of storytelling, moral teaching, and cultural expression. A key feature of Cempuling is its interactive nature—singers often invite the audience to sing along or respond to jokes and poetic exchanges, creating a lively, two-way connection that resonates deeply with the community.

Muhamad Arib Bin Satro