Calung

A Calung can either refer to a bamboo xylophone instrument or an ensemble. The Calung consists of multiple bamboo tubes which are struck at the base to produce a woody sound. In Balinese culture, the Calung is actually a metallophonic instrument that has a one-octave range, and is generally utilized to play mid-range melodies. In Banyumas, southwestern Central Java in Indonesia, when Calung is referred to as an ensemble, it uses multiple bamboo instruments and is composed of singers and dancers. The ensemble is characterized by a variety of traits that include: interlocking melodies and rhythm, abrupt changes in tempo, as well as syncopated rhythm and humorous vocals. Calung is present at many celebratory gatherings, and its dancers are sometimes related to prostitution.