ARTS AND CULTURE INFORMATION GATEWAY
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LAGU RAKYAT
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Introduction and history
Folk songs are a form of traditional music that originate from the community and evolve based on their daily needs and lifestyles. They represent an important cultural heritage in the lives of the Malay people, particularly in Malaysia. Folk songs encompass various forms and genres such as pantun (quatrains), syair (poems), ballads, and traditional songs that are closely tied to daily activities, customs, and beliefs of the Malay community.
1. Influence of the Environment
Folk songs are often influenced by the environment, community life, and traditional occupations. For example, many folk songs are associated with agriculture, fishing, weddings, and village life.
2. Colonial and Foreign Cultural Influence
Throughout history, Malay folk songs have also been influenced by Arab, Indian, and European cultures. For instance, the pantun songs often found in traditional Malay theater forms such as Mak Yong or Wayang Kulit reflect such influences.
3. Oral Transmission
Folk songs are typically passed down orally from one generation to the next. This method of transmission has made it easy for these songs to spread and develop among the community without the need for printed media or audio recordings.
CHARACTERISTICS OF FOLK SONGS
Lyrics: The lyrics of folk songs are easy to remember and are often poetic and symbolic. They frequently convey moral lessons, religious messages, or social critique.
Melody: The melodies of folk songs are generally simple and repetitive, making them easy for the community to learn and sing.
Group Singing: Folk songs are often performed in groups or by a community, whether during traditional ceremonies or celebrations.
Folk songs serve various functions in Malay society, including:
1. Education and Moral Instruction
Folk songs often convey moral lessons about values such as kindness, justice, loyalty, and unity. They are used to educate the community about virtuous principles.
2. Commemorating History and Events
Many folk songs recount historical events or significant moments in the lives of the Malay community. For instance, songs like Seribu Tahun tell stories of struggles and milestones in the lives of the Malay people.
3. Strengthening Cultural Identity
Folk songs are a means of preserving and introducing traditional culture to younger generations. They help communities stay connected to their cultural heritage while preserving the Malay identity.
4. A Source of Entertainment
In addition to their social and religious functions, folk songs also act as a source of entertainment. Through singing and accompanying dances, communities can enjoy themselves and engage socially.
5. A Medium for Emotional Expression
Folk songs are often used to express emotions such as sadness, longing, or joy. They are also performed during celebrations to mark achievements or provide solace during times of grief.
Preparation for Folk Song Performances
Preparing for a folk song performance involves several elements to ensure a smooth and impactful presentation. Below are the main steps involved:
Selection of Songs
Selecting the appropriate folk song to match the theme of the performance is crucial. The chosen song should align with the event or ceremony. For instance, wedding songs are appropriate for marriage ceremonies, while religious songs are suitable for spiritual events.
Group Training for Singers
The group of singers must undergo training to ensure harmony in melody, lyrics, and rhythm. This involves vocal practice and emotional interpretation, particularly to convey the intended message of the song.
Choice of Musical Instruments
Traditional instruments must be prepared to accompany the song. Instruments such as the gendang (drum), serunai (flute), rebab (bowed lute), and gong are commonly used in Malay folk song performances.
Costume Preparation
Choosing appropriate costumes is essential to reflect the culture and theme of the song. Traditional attire such as baju kurung or songket is often worn to highlight the authenticity of Malay culture.
Stage Preparation
The performance stage should be well-decorated to reflect the atmosphere of the song being performed. For instance, if the song is about celebrations or weddings, the stage could be adorned with flowers, colorful fabrics, or traditional ornaments.
Rehearsals
Joint rehearsals are an essential part of preparation. All elements—vocals, music, and dance movements—must be synchronized to ensure a flawless and satisfying performance of the folk song.
Emotional Connection to the Song
Each individual involved in the folk song performance should connect with the moral message or story embedded in the song. This ensures that the performance is not just about technique but also about genuine emotional expression.
Reference Source
Bahan Bacaan
Azmi, A. (2004). Lagu Rakyat: Warisan Budaya Melayu. Kuala Lumpur: Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka.
Hashim, H. (2010). Lagu-lagu Tradisional Melayu: Sejarah dan Perkembangannya. Kuala Lumpur: Pustaka Nasional.
Salleh, M. (2012). Fungsi Lagu Rakyat dalam Masyarakat Melayu. Jurnal Kebudayaan, 9(3), 43-56.
Mahmud, Z. (2008). Melodi dan Irama dalam Lagu Rakyat. Johor Bahru: Universiti Teknologi Malaysia Press.
Zainal, M. (2011). Lagu Rakyat: Suara Tradisional Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur: University of Malaya Press.
Ismail, F. (2005). Warisan Lagu Rakyat Melayu: Pengekalan dan Pembaharuan. Jurnal Seni, 8(1), 20-34.
Kementerian Pelancongan dan Kebudayaan Malaysia. (2013). Lagu Rakyat: Warisan Musik Tradisional Melayu. Putrajaya: Kementerian Pelancongan dan Kebudayaan Malaysia.
Rahman, R. (2014). Penyebaran Lagu Rakyat di Asia Tenggara. Kuala Lumpur: Pustaka Pelajar.
Salleh, M. (2017). Peranan Lagu Rakyat dalam Pendidikan Moral dan Sosial Masyarakat Melayu. Jurnal Pendidikan, 12(2), 45-59.
Siti Zainab, M. (2015). Lagu Rakyat dan Perkembangannya dalam Budaya Melayu. Kuala Lumpur: Penerbit Universiti Malaya.
Tokoh (jika ada temu bual tokoh)
Location
State JKKN Contact Information
Encik Azaha Othman
Cultural Officer
Jabatan Kebudayaan dan Kesenian Negara Terengganu
Kompleks JKKN Terengganu
Kuala Ibai,
20400, Kuala Terengganu,
TERENGGANU DARUL IMAN
09-617 8831
