Lombok has a number of traditional musical instruments, some unique to the island and some drawn from other cultures which are used in ceremonial and celebratory performances.
Beleq Drum
One of Lombok’s best known musical instruments is the Beleq drum.
Also known as Gandang Beleq, this Drum is cylindrical in shape and is beaten at both ends.
Performaces of the Beleq drum can be played in a sitting or standing position as well as while walking as part of a procession.
In most instances two, two Beleq Drum are played accompanied by a large gong.
Beleq drums were traditionally played when parties or ceremonies were held within the kingdom. However in times of war, the Beleq Drum served as a morale booster for soldiers as they prepare to face their enemy.
Silu
Silu is essentially a simple flute made from a long, thin-walled piece of bamboo. Variations of the Silu can be found throughout Indonesia. Other traditional woodwind instruments include the petuk and rincik.
Gambus
The Gambus is a stringed instrument which may take the form of a lyre or mandolin. It was adopted in Lombok around the 15th century as Islamic influence spread throughout the archipelago.
Slober
Slober is a traditional instrument made from a thin slice of bamboo that is struck to create a vibrating sound. But slober also refers to an entire musical performance where this small instrument is accompanied by the other traditional instruments previously described.
Slober is believed to be one of Lombok’s oldest musical art forms and is usually played every full moon.
One theory on the origins of the name Slober is that it is taken from one of the villagers of Pringgasela in the East Lombok Regency, Amaq Asih aka Amaq Slober, who used to play the instrument in his spare time. Another theory is that it is a combination of two words which together mean an activity done in one’s spare time.