Visiting Saung Angklung Udjo In Bandung, West Java

saung angklung udjo

Indonesia is a nation of rich cultural diversity, with over 17,000 islands, each boasting its unique traditions, art forms, and music. Among these cultural treasures, Saung Angklung Udjo stands out as a beacon of traditional Indonesian performing arts. Situated in the heart of West Java, Saung Angklung Udjo is more than just a tourist attraction; it's a living testament to the preservation and promotion of Indonesian culture, particularly through the enchanting sounds of the angklung.

The Birth of Saung Angklung Udjo

Saung Angklung Udjo, was established in 1966 by the remarkable Udjo Ngalagena and his wife, Uum Sumiati. The institution was named after Udjo, whose tireless efforts to popularize the angklung were instrumental in its preservation and growth.

Angklung is a traditional Indonesian musical instrument made of bamboo. It consists of several bamboo tubes of varying lengths, which produce different pitches when shaken. This beautiful instrument has been played for centuries across the Indonesian archipelago, but it faced the risk of extinction due to urbanization and the influence of modern Western music. Saung Angklung Udjo was created to prevent this from happening and to ensure that the angklung's melodious charm continued to enchant generations. 

Udjo Ngalagena & Uum Sumiati

saung angklung udjo

saung angklung udjo

Preservation of Culture and Tradition

One of the primary objectives of Saung Angklung Udjo is the preservation and promotion of Indonesian culture. In a world that's rapidly becoming more globalized, the preservation of traditional arts is vital to maintaining a nation's identity. This center has become a hub for education, teaching traditional music, dance, and other Indonesian art forms to both locals and tourists.The center offers various programs and workshops that enable visitors to experience the cultural richness of West Java. From angklung-making workshops to traditional dance performances, Saung Angklung Udjo is a comprehensive cultural institution that caters to all ages. These programs play a crucial role in ensuring that younger generations are well-versed in the nation's cultural heritage.

• Wayang Golek : Wayang Golek is a West Javanese folk art performance featuring puppets controlled by a puppeteer accompanied by traditional instruments consisting of several musical instruments called "Nayaga".

wayang golek saung angklung udjo

Historical and Iconic Art Deco Building In Bandung

• Tari Topeng : This mask dance is performed by girls with several dance phases. At first they dance gracefully like princesses, but when they wear masks they will dance like warriors according to their masks.

tari topeng saung angklung udjo

• Helaran : This is a traditional procession after a child has been circumcised with the aim of making the child who is in pain due to circumcision forget a little about the pain and be entertained by the event. The circumcised child was on a chair being carried by four adults.

helaran saung angklung udjo

Angklung Performances

The heart of Saung Angklung Udjo lies in its breathtaking angklung performances. Visitors can witness the harmony of these bamboo instruments, with each musician contributing to a mesmerizing musical composition. The center conducts daily angklung performances, captivating audiences with their melodious tunes and synchronized movements.

What makes these performances even more fascinating is that they incorporate not only the angklung but also traditional Indonesian dances and songs. This holistic approach to the arts provides visitors with a deep understanding of the cultural significance of these performances and leaves a lasting impression.

Eco-Friendly Practices

Beyond its cultural significance, Saung Angklung Udjo is also known for its eco-friendly practices. The institution uses sustainable bamboo for its angklung instruments, demonstrating a commitment to preserving the environment along with Indonesian culture. This focus on sustainability is not only an ethical choice but also a way to ensure that the center can continue to produce the instruments essential to their performances.

Saung Angklung Udjo is more than just a cultural center; it is a living testament to the rich and vibrant culture of West Java and Indonesia as a whole. It stands as a beacon of tradition, art, and music in an ever-changing world. By preserving and promoting Indonesian culture, the institution is not only a source of pride for the nation but also a means of educating, entertaining, and inspiring all those who have the privilege of visiting. If you find yourself in West Java, make sure to visit Saung Angklung Udjo to experience the captivating allure of Indonesian culture through the enchanting sounds of the angklung.