(MENAFN- The Peninsula) The Peninsula
Doha: Traditional Indonesian music instrument, Angklung, was introduced to students of Qatar International School (QIS). The music instrument was demonstrated during the International Day Festival held at QIS Campus in West Bay.
Angklung is a popular music instrument that originated from Sunda, one of Indonesia's 1.340 ethnic group. It is made of bamboo tubes in different sizes, attached to a bamboo frame. Each size will resonate different music notes when shaken.
Traditionally, Angklung is played by a group of people, each holding a different music note and harmonise together to play a song, like an orchestra.
During the festival, QIS Students got a chance to try the Angklung under the guidance of representative from Indonesia Ladies Angklung (ILA).
“We invited teachers and students to play Angklung together with us,” said Yuli, a parent, who is also a member of the ILA.
Besides introducing Angklung, the Indonesian Booth was decorated with many artefacts from different parts of Indonesia. There were also various Indonesian food and snacks that students could sample.
And to further introduce Indonesian culture, the parents hosted quizzes about Indonesia with prizes handed out to students and teachers who could answer correctly.
“It's a nice experience to take part in promoting Indonesia during this festival,” said Klara, an Indonesian parent who recently moved to Qatar.
According to Andra, the Coordinator of the Indonesian Booth, this festival was the perfect way to promote Indonesian tourism. In the upcoming era, adventure tourism will be more popular because it will provide exciting new experiences for tourists, and Indonesia, with it's 13,000 islands, has many options. From cultural experiences, nature, sporting activities, culinary adventure, and shopping, Indonesia is the perfect destination for vacation.
The International Day Festival was attended by thousands of visitors, including students, parents and teachers from different nationalities. It showcased cultures from various countries with one common theme,“Share our similarities and celebrate our diversity.”
The festival was closed with a flash mob of Gemu Fa Mi Re Dance led by Indonesian dance club, Puspa Qinarya.