![]() | This article includes a list of general
references, but it lacks sufficient corresponding
inline citations. (November 2012) |
![]() Gabbang owned by
Kontra Gapi | |
idiophone | |
---|---|
Other names | bamboo xylophone, agung gabbang ( Yakan), gambang ( Samal), gabbang ( Tausug, Palawan) |
Hornbostel–Sachs classification | 111.212 [1] |
The gabbang, also known as bamboo xylophone, is a musical instrument made of bamboo widely used in southern Philippines. Among the Tausugs and Samas, it is commonly played to accompany songs and dances as a solo instrument or accompanied by the biola. [2]
A gabbang consists of a set of trapezoidal bamboo bars of increasing length resting on a resonator. [2] The number of bars varies with the group that made them: Among Yakans, the number ranges from three to nine bamboo bars, but the common agung gabbang has five; among Tausugs, the number ranges from 14 to 22 bamboo bars, but the common gabbang has 12; and in Palawan, the common gabbang has five. [3]
A bamboo xylophone is played by direct striking using a wooden mallet. The gabbang is played by a pair of beaters while another taps a rhythmic pattern on the side of the box. [4] [2]