Representation of Local Style in Performance of ‘Cingcangkeling’ on the International Choir Festival

Abstract

This research was conducted to understand the representation of local styles in one of the Sundanese (West Java -Indonesia) folksongs, i.e. Cingcangkeling, at International Choir Festival. The aim of this study was to understand the use of local styles in the performance of Cingcangkeling performance as well as the relationship between the performance and the national identity of the choir. The method used in this study is a qualitative method with an performance ethnographic approach to that combines musical aspects and non-musical elements. Data collection techniques were carried out through preliminary studies, music analysis, and video analysis. The findings revealed that the local styles in the performance of Cingcangkeling can be seen in the musical ornaments, choreography, as well as costumes and props from Sundanese cultures. The local styles in the performance of Cingcangkeling reflects the children's play (kaulinan barudak) and the bodor character (comedy) found in Sundanese society. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that in performing Cingcangkeling at international festivals, the choir group not only shows the uniqueness of the local styles of Sundanese (West Java) culture as a part of Indonesian cultural diversity, both musically and non-musically, but also becomes a 'cultural ambassador' who emphasizes their national identity in the international world.