Introduction
Music is a powerful tool that can communicate, sustain, change, and identify. As a musician who has traveled the world, I have witnessed firsthand the impact of music on different societies and cultures. In this article, we will explore the importance of preserving folk music as a means of preserving identity and culture. We will discuss the power of music to express and share feelings, the role of traditional music in East Timor, and the efforts being made to revive and sustain this cultural heritage.
The Power of Music
Music is a universal language that transcends cultural and linguistic barriers. It has the ability to communicate complex emotions that cannot be expressed through words alone. For example, the haunting and sad song sung by a distressed East Timorese woman in the audio-visual piece “X” resonated with audiences after the 9/11 attacks. The exchange of emotions between the audience and the performer was raw and deeply moving, illustrating the power of music to connect and empathize.
Preserving Traditional Music in East Timor
In 2002, musician Martyn Wesley Smith and I traveled to East Timor with the intention of preserving and recording traditional music. We performed concerts in various venues, including halls, churches, and even a UN-run police station. The response we received from the East Timorese people was overwhelming. In one village, we played to a packed hall, while an equal number of people gathered outside, desperately trying to get in. To accommodate everyone, we performed twice, sealing off the walls to combat the sweltering heat.
Traditional Instruments and Their Cultural Significance
Traditional music in East Timor is deeply intertwined with the community’s daily activities, rituals, and traditions. Instruments like the Phooey, a traditional flute, were used by farmers to call their cattle home. The Cackle Luta, a stringed instrument, helped farmers ward off monkeys from their crops. The Chorale Decor, a buffalo horn, was used to summon ancestral spirits or alert villagers of any imminent danger. These instruments not only produce music but also hold cultural significance and preserve the history and customs of the community.
The Importance of Soul in Music
As a musician, I believe that to truly play an instrument, one must have soul. In East Timor, the concept of soul is encapsulated in the word “clamor.” Clamor is believed to reside in the head and represents the spirit of the people. It is this soul in the music that brings it to life and creates a deep emotional connection with the listeners.
Tradition, Change, and Identity
Tradition plays a crucial role in maintaining cultural heritage, but it is not static. As the world evolves, traditions can be reworked and adapted to suit the changing times. In East Timor, traditions have been influenced by migrations from various cultures, such as China, Africa, and Portugal. For example, the use of a marching drum and flag, introduced by the Portuguese, is now considered a traditional instrument in East Timor. This fluidity of tradition allows cultures to evolve while still preserving their identity.
Music as a Catalyst for Change
Music has often been used as a powerful tool for revolution and social change. The freedom songs sung by oppressed communities, such as the African cultures during apartheid, played a significant role in the fight against oppression. In East Timor, the freedom song “Oras He La” became an anthem of resistance during the Indonesian occupation. Music has the ability to inspire and unite people, giving them a voice when words alone are not enough.
Music as a Reflection of Identity
Music holds a special place in the identity of individuals and communities. For example, national anthems are instantly recognizable and often evoke a sense of patriotism and belonging. Similarly, traditional instruments like the didgeridoo from Australia or the sarama from Timor reflect the unique identity and cultural heritage of a specific place.
The Threat to Traditional Timorese Music
Traditional Timorese music has faced numerous challenges, particularly during the Indonesian occupation. The cultural revival efforts in East Timor have been hindered by the introduction of foreign musical cultures by the United Nations and humanitarian NGOs. The younger generation, no longer familiar with their own traditional music, often gravitates towards Indonesian or Western pop music, leading to concerns about the disappearance of traditional musical culture.
Reviving and Sustaining Traditional Music
Despite the challenges, there are encouraging efforts to revive and sustain traditional Timorese music. The Ministry of Education in East Timor has implemented a curriculum that includes the teaching of traditional culture and music to young students. This initiative aims to ensure that the younger generation appreciates and takes pride in their cultural heritage. Additionally, musicians and cultural custodians are working tirelessly to record and preserve traditional songs and stories for future generations.
Conclusion
Music plays a vital role in preserving identity and culture. Through the power of music, emotions are expressed, history is told, and communities are united. The efforts to revive and sustain traditional music in East Timor are crucial in preserving the cultural heritage of the Timorese people. By valuing and celebrating their unique traditional music, future generations can continue to appreciate and embrace their cultural identity. Let us preserve the soulful sounds of traditional music for generations to come.
