THE EXISTENCE OF GONDANG BATAK MUSIC IN THE DEATH CEREMONY OF SAUR MATUA IN PURBATUA, NORTH TAPANULI

Abstract

This research using descriptive qualitative method that focused on the existency of gondang Batak traditional music in Saur Matua funeral ceremony in Purbatua, North Tapanuli. The death ceremony of Saur Matua has a function as a media to preserve Batak traditional culture. This study analyse the musical form, function, and the unique activity of gondang Batak using ethnomusicology approach.  Data collection techniques are interviews and documentation. The researchers found that there is an effort to preserve Batak cultural heritage through gondang Batak traditional music such as introducing gondang Batak music to the younger generation, practicing Gondang Batak in a daily basis, and understanding the forms and function of the instrument. It is also found that there are 6 functions contained in Gondang Batak and meaning contained within the wedding ceremony can visualize well with a selection of songs and musical accompaniment of Gondang Batak.

Keywords: Gondang Batak, Funeral Ceremonies, Existency, Etnomusicology