Gendang Seluk in Karo Society of Desa Gunung, Tigabinanga District

Presentation and Function in Ritual

Abstract

Gendang Seluk is a form of ritual music practiced by the Karo community and remains actively performed in traditional ceremonies, particularly during Kerja Tahun and the Ndilo Wari Udan ritual in Desa Gunung, Tigabinanga District, Karo Regency. This musical tradition functions not merely as ceremonial accompaniment but also carries deep symbolic, social, and spiritual meanings. This study aims to examine the presentation of Gendang Seluk and to analyze its functions within the social and ritual life of the Karo community in Desa Gunung. The research employs a qualitative approach with a descriptive-analytical design. Data were collected through field observations, in-depth interviews with traditional leaders, spiritual figures, musicians, and community members, as well as documentation of Gendang Seluk performances. Data analysis was conducted through data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing, referring to Alan P. Merriam’s theory of musical functions. The findings indicate that Gendang Seluk is presented through a fixed sequence of repertoires, namely mari-mari, diden-diden, odak-odak, perkabang kiung, penganjak, and silengguri as the ritual climax. Despite instrumental adaptations, such as the use of electronic keyboards, the essential functions of Gendang Seluk remain preserved. Gendang Seluk serves as a medium of emotional expression, ritual and spiritual symbolism, social interaction and entertainment, a symbol of adat identity, and cultural continuity. This study affirms that Gendang Seluk represents a living and dynamic musical event within the Karo cultural system.