Tarling Art : A Coastal Cirebon Cultural Heritage That Never Fades
“Tarling Art: A Coastal Cirebon Cultural Heritage That Never Fades”
Author: Abah Roy Chairman of DPC Aswin Cirebon
Tarling art, originating from the coastal areas of Cirebon and Indramayu, West Java, has become an integral part of the local cultural life. This art form is widely recognized not only in Cirebon but also in various other regions, especially in West Java. However, did you know that the name “Tarling” was first introduced to the public in the 1960s, thanks to an important figure, Mr. Fadjar Madradji, the Head of RRI Cirebon?
Tarling combines the guitar and flute, producing a distinctive and heartfelt melody. Mr. Fadjar Madradji, who served as the Head of RRI Cirebon at the time, introduced the term “Tarling” to describe the fusion of these musical instruments, which previously lacked a clear name. From there, Tarling music began to gain widespread recognition and became a strong symbol of Cirebonese cultural heritage.
In the past, Tarling music often accompanied folk events and traditional ceremonies in the northern coastal regions of Java. However, as time progressed, Tarling underwent many changes and adaptations. In the 1950s, the addition of instruments such as kendang, gong, and kecrek made Tarling more vibrant and appealing. Moreover, the lyrics in Tarling began to incorporate themes of social issues, love, religion, and everyday life.
Over time, this art form grew in popularity, especially during the 1970s-1980s, when “Tarling Drajat” emerged, introducing elements of folk drama and comedy. During this era, Tarling was not just a musical entertainment but also a medium for delivering humorous and meaningful stories.
However, Tarling faced challenges as modernization influenced people’s musical preferences, particularly among the younger generation, who leaned more towards contemporary music. Despite this, Tarling has persisted and continues to evolve by adapting to modern influences. Today, many young musicians and singers perform Tarling Dangdut, a fusion of Dangdut rhythms with Tarling melodies, creating a new genre that is gaining popularity.
As a valuable cultural heritage, it is crucial for us to preserve and develop Tarling art. Efforts such as the Tarling Festival, the documentation of classic Tarling songs, and utilizing digital platforms to introduce this art form to the world are concrete steps to ensure its survival and appreciation for future generations.
As cultural heirs, we all share the responsibility of safeguarding Tarling so that it remains enjoyed by people worldwide. As the nephew of Mr. Fadjar Madradji, I feel proud and honored to be part of a family that contributed to the introduction and preservation of Tarling art. Let us continue to support this heritage so that it remains recognized and appreciated by generations to come, because Tarling is not just music—it is a part of our cultural identity that must be preserved.
I hope this article provides insight into the significance of Tarling in the cultural life of Cirebon and its surroundings while encouraging us all to keep it alive.