Gambus, History of Middle Eastern Art in Sumatra

Helloindonesia.id – Lute is a traditional musical instrument commonly found in Malay society. This instrument is played by plucking like a harp or guitar. The body part of the gambus is shaped like a pumpkin that is halved with three to 12 strings. There are some strings in the form of single strings and some have double strings.

Gambus history in Indonesia

In the archipelago, gambus came with Islamic symbols from the Arabian Peninsula. The use of this instrument continues to grow in Malay culture today. Gambus can be found in traditional arts in various regions in Sumatra. Some areas that are known to use stringed instruments include Aceh, Deli, Belitung, and Lampung.

Gambus musical instruments are also used as entertainment in the Belitung Malay community, among others in the tradition of eating bedulang. Whereas in the Deli Malay community art, gambus becomes part of the arrangement of zapin dance accompaniment. In Lampung, gambus is also used as an arrangement in various dances, both traditional dances and dance creations typical of Lampung.

Lute also became the main instrument in the music of lute orchestra with flutes, violins, drums, and tabla which is still preserved in the traditional culture of the Betawi people.

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