Cultural Transformation of Gordang Sambilan: Shifts in Function and Aesthetic Values
Abstract
This study aims to analyze the cultural transformation of Gordang Sambilan, a traditional musical ensemble of the Batak Mandailing community, by examining the shifts in its function and aesthetic values. Employing a qualitative approach with ethnographic methods, data were collected through field observations, in-depth interviews with cultural figures and musicians, and document analysis. The findings reveal a significant transformation: from its original function as a sacred medium in rituals and ancestral communication, Gordang Sambilan has evolved into a cultural performance and entertainment medium. Aesthetic values have also shifted with the incorporation of modern musical elements, affecting performance styles and repertoire. Despite these changes, Gordang Sambilan remains a vital symbol of Mandailing cultural identity, navigating the challenges of modernization and globalization.
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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.18415/ijmmu.v12i11.6795
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