Slentho from the Javanese Gamelan Kyai Rengga Manis Everist

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NMM 9924. Slentho in Laras Pelog. Similar to saron demung in size. Metallophone with seven large bronze bars placed over teakwood frame. Each bronze bar has node that is struck like a gong. Keys held in place by two pins inserted through holes in the bars and embedded into the frame. Decorated with flower and leaf pattern covered in gold leaf. Length: 115.2 cm. Mallet (tabuh) with red cord wrapped very close to one end creating a soft, springy, oval shape that comes in contact with the node of the bar.

Right: Side and back views of a single bronze bar

Function:  The slentho plays the basic or skeletal melody of the music. In cases where the slenthem deviates from the basic melody, the slentho follows the slenthem.

Playing technique:  The slentho is played by striking the bar in its center with the oval end of the mallet and dampening the previous bar when the next is played. The player sits on the side with the pitches ascending from left to right.

Go to Checklist of Musical Instruments from Kyai Rengga Manis Everist Gamelan

Go to The Manufacture and Ceremonial History of the Kyai Rengga Manis Everist Gamelan

Go to The Arrival of the Kyai Rengga Manis Everist Gamelan in Vermillion, July 15, 2000

Go to The Naming Ceremony for the Kyai Rengga Manis Everist Gamelan, April 26, 2003

Go to Glossary of Terms Relating to the Kyai Rengga Manis Everist Gamelan

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