'Macapat' contest aims to help keep Javanese traditions alive

JAKARTA (JP): The nearly-forgotten Javanese tradition of Macapat, or sung poems, will be 'remembered' during a three-day contest to be held at the Stage restaurant in Ratu Plaza, South Jakarta, starting today.

The contest, with nearly 150 participants, is an attempt not to leave behind the culture which has developed in Java since the 17th century, said head organizer Sides Sudyarto DS yesterday.

The contest, being held for the 14th time, has been organized by the Macapat organization Radyo Agung Jakarta in cooperation with the Stage restaurant and Jakarta's Culture Agency.

"It is impossible to 'revive' the tradition because actually it is not only macapat which is facing extinction, but also Javanese culture in general," Sides said. "This contest is not meant as an effort to revive but rather to mourn this forgotten tradition."

In some areas in Java the tradition has totally disappeared. Yogyakarta, Solo and Jakarta are currently known as places where Macapat is still sung.

Macapat actually contains philosophy on Javanese morals and ethics. Its lyrics speak about a harmonious life and educative teachings, such as appeals to be close to God or not to go to sleep too early since people won't have time to reflect on their lives.

Javanese usually sing the Macapat at weddings as well as baby naming and circumcision ceremonies. Singer Nyi Condrolukito and the late composer Narto Sabdo both helped popularize this Javanese art form.

But today, with modernity, macapat is gradually being left behind like some other Javanese cultures.

"Today, even in the macapat organization itself, it is difficult to hold a discussion in 100 percent Javanese. We have to speak Indonesian because many members no longer master Javanese," Sides said.

He added that with the extinction of macapat, ethics and moral values of Javanese have changed as well.

Currently there are around 52 Macapat groups in Jakarta, all of whom are members of the Radyo Agung organization.

"The number of contest participants this year has decreased significantly since two years ago when over 300 participated," Sides said. (als)