Sound of Aceh's flute drowned out by new tunes

By Ampelsa and Azhari

BANDA ACEH (Antara): During the heyday of Aceh's Sultan Iskandar Muda in the 17th century, palace officials were serenaded by seurune kalee, a popular flute-like musical instrument.

It was customarily played at important events, including wedding ceremonies and the welcoming of dignitaries, during the sultan's reign from 1607-1636.

"During Sultan Iskandar Muda's era, the traditional music was played to begin rituals for the nobility in the presence of dignitaries and royal guests," said Abdul Djalil, a member of the Foundation for Acehnese Customs and Culture.

But changing musical tastes have ushered in a new era. The traditional instrumental music has seemingly lost its allure as both players and makers claim the younger generation prefers contemporary tunes. Its sounds are seldom heard anymore except when played by the elderly at special occasions.

Acehnese lament that their traditional music has been drowned out by modern culture, while the younger generation shies away from promoting traditional music.

The downward spiral began in the 1980s when the music was no longer played at important traditional ceremonies.

The instrument, made of wood, does not look out of the ordinary. But when played in harmony with other rhythmic instruments, it can spellbind audiences.

It is usually played by an ensemble of three to six people, accompanied by drums and dance.

It was also a source for raising the spirit and pride of warriors during conflict.

It was played after a harvest season or during the traditional marine festival (kenduri laut) held by fishermen. During those times, the sultan, important officials and villagers would join together in listening to the music and thanking the Lord for their harvest.

For ordinary people, the music was usually enjoyed in open fields during festivities and rituals.

Selected wood

To make the instrument, a type of hard Kapula Jawa wood is rounded and shaped with a diameter of 0.5 cm at its mouthpiece and 8 cm at the other end. Seven finger-holes are made along its length of 50 cm to 60 cm.

To make playing easier for players, a brass plate is added to the blowing tip.

According to seurune kalee maker and player Abdullah, 67, it takes about four months to finish one.

"To work on a seurune kalee, one should be skillful, diligent and patient, or the instrument will not produce a sweet sound," he said.

The father of seven children has worked in the music business for 50 years. He believes the music could be saved for future generations to hear if it was fused with contemporary styles to create a unique musical hybrid.