Which instrument is traditionally associated with the Indonesian gamelan?

Which instrument is traditionally associated with the Indonesian gamelan?

• A. Piano
• B. Drums
• C. Trumpet
• D. Harmonica

Answer: (B)

The instrument traditionally associated with the Indonesian gamelan is the gong, which is a type of percussion instrument. Although the choices provided include drums, it’s important to note that the gamelan ensemble primarily consists of a variety of instruments, including metallophones, xylophones, and gongs, rather than typical Western orchestral instruments like the piano, trumpet, or harmonica. Drums do play a role in rhythm and accompaniment within gamelan music, reflecting the ensemble's reliance on percussive sounds, which is a critical characteristic of its performance style. Therefore, while drums themselves are not the central instrument, they are indeed integral to the gamelan as a whole, making the choice of drums relevant in this context.

The instrument traditionally associated with the Indonesian gamelan is the gong, which is a type of percussion instrument. Although the choices provided include drums, it’s important to note that the gamelan ensemble primarily consists of a variety of instruments, including metallophones, xylophones, and gongs, rather than typical Western orchestral instruments like the piano, trumpet, or harmonica. Drums do play a role in rhythm and accompaniment within gamelan music, reflecting the ensemble's reliance on percussive sounds, which is a critical characteristic of its performance style. Therefore, while drums themselves are not the central instrument, they are indeed integral to the gamelan as a whole, making the choice of drums relevant in this context.