Bonang

/bɒˈnæŋ/ noun

Definition

A traditional Indonesian percussion instrument consisting of a set of tuned bronze bowls or pots arranged in a row and struck with mallets.

Etymology

From Javanese and Indonesian 'bonang', a word of uncertain ultimate origin but used across Indonesia and Malaysia for this gamelan instrument family.

Kelly Says

The bonang is core to Indonesian gamelan orchestras, and its name is so tied to Southeast Asian identity that it never needed a European 'translation'—it proves that some instruments are inseparable from their cultural sound!

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