Performativity of Gandang Tasa in the Mauluik Ritual in Sicincin, Pariaman, West Sumatra

Abstract

The goal of this research is to discuss the performativity of gandang tasa in the procession of the mauluik ritual in Sicincin, Pariaman, from an expression of solemnity to one of joy, loss of control, and trance. The mauluik ritual in Sicincin, Pariaman is performed as part of a religious ritual which combines elements of local culture with traditional music. The traditional music gandang tasa is used to create an atmosphere of excitement and to promote a sense of togetherness which leads to a trance. Gandang tasa is the name of a percussion ensemble which plays music with a character that is energetic, loud, and fast, with a performativity that is frenzied and spirited and causes the participants in the ritual to become passionate and excited. The people taking part in the procession, especially teenage boys and girls, are excited by the accompaniment of the gandang tasa which creates an atmosphere of exuberance, causing them to become elated to the point where they enter into a trance. The method used in this research is a qualitative method, and the detailed and comprehensive data collection included close observation of a mauluik performance. The descriptive-analytical principle was an important method used in the discussion. The research into the performativity of gandang tasa focuses on the behaviour of the performers and their bodily experiences (embodiment). The results of the research show that the performativity of gandang tasa is evident in two forms of expression, namely in the expression of elation and the expression of frenzied fervour. The performativity of gandang tasa appears to alter paradoxically the goal of the ritual, from a solemn occasion to one that is joyful, loses control, and evokes a trance.

Keywords: mauluik ritual, gandang tasa , performativity, Sicincin, and trance.