MELAYU ASLI SONGS: SYNCRETISM ELEMENTS IN PERFORMANCE INSTRUMENTATION

Melayu Asli songs symbolized the identity of Malay music performances. However it is to be found that the Malay traditional instruments when combined with external instruments have contributed to the changes in Melayu Asli song. The use of traditional instruments such as gong, tambourine and drums combine with acoustic guitar, accordion, violin and other various external instruments is said to have a direct role with the syncretism element in Melayu Asli performances. This research aims to explore the extent of influence and elements of syncretism in the authenticity of instrumentation that changes the Melayu Asli Song performances. The methodology of focuses on secondary data which includes library materials and primary data analysis through songs recorded from the Album Lagu Melayu Asli: Penerbitan Inovasi Karya Seni dan Kelestarian Warisan (2014) by the Cultural Center, USIM. In addition, the study was also conducted to gather information through interviews with key informants such as R. Ismail, Aspalela Abdullah, Raftah Bachik, S. Atan and Pak Ngah. The findings have revealed that there is element of syncreticism existed in these combinations. This can be traced to its influences from the western, India and Arab origins. It is expected that this research will help the new creative future generations to recognize closely the relationships of the usage of instrument and its characteristics that contribute further towards syncretism in the local Melayu Asli song.