Music of Indonesia, Vol. 4: Music of Nias and North Sumatra: Hoho, Gendang Karo, Gondang Toba

produced by Philip Yampolsky, fl. 1987 (Smithsonian Folkways Recordings, 1992), 1 hour 13 mins

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Field of Interest: World Music
Description: The Toba and Karo from North Sumatra developed complex instrumental traditions. The Toba, one of the few societies to use tuned drums to carry a melody, combine them with gongs and oboe-like instruments, creating dynamic melodies and rhythms. The Karo ensemble features expert drumming full of snaps and pops. The Ono Niha people from the island of Nias perform ornate choral songs called hoho, which use only four tones and embody their oral tradition. Unknown outside of Indonesia, these 1990 digital recordings include extensive notes. 72 minutes. "Its variety—in sound, feel, and purpose—is astonishing and inspiring." — Rhythm Music

The published liner notes, along with corrections and supplementary materials, are available here.
Content Type: Music recording
Duration: 1 hour 13 mins
Format: Audio
Sub Genre: Traditional, Ritual
Label: Smithsonian Folkways Recordings
Producer: Philip Yampolsky, fl. 1987
Release Date: 1992
Subject: World Music, Music & Performing Arts, Australia and the Pacific Islands, Australia e Ilhas do Pacífico, Australia e Islas del Pacífico, Indonesia
Keywords and Translated Subjects: Australia e Ilhas do Pacífico, Australia e Islas del Pacífico