"Music of Indonesia, Vol. 4: Music of Nias and North Sumatra: Hoho, Gendang " - Various Artists

• artist:
  Various Artists
• featured artist:
  Gendang Lima Sedalanen, Rawatan Dachi, Saraini Bu'ulolo, Gondang Sabangunan, Gondang Hasapi
• region:
  South East Asia
• release year:
  1992
• style(s):
  • Traditional
  • World
• country:
  Indonesia
• formats:
  • audio file / digital
  • CD (Compact Disc)
  • MC (Music Cassette)
• record submitted by:
  Smithsonian Folkways Recordings
• label:
  Smithsonian Folkways Recordings
• publisher:
  Smithsonian Folkways Recordings
• 
  buy this record

The Toba and Karo from North Sumatra developed complex instrumental traditions. The Toba, one of the few societies to use tuned drums to carry a melody, combine them with gongs and oboe-like instruments, creating dynamic melodies and rhythms. The Karo ensemble features expert drumming full of snaps and pops. The Ono Niha people from the island of Nias perform ornate choral songs called hoho, which use only four tones and embody their oral tradition.

Links

• Music of Indonesia series landing page