tags: philippines music instrument kulintang culture ensemble ethnomusicology rhythmic-mode
Duyug/Sirong
Duyug and sirong are [kulintang rhythmic modes] with musical phrases two beats in length, with emphasis at the beginning of each beat.
- Duyug means "accompany", used by Datu Piang musicians and other upriver [Maguindanaon]
- relates to the kulintang played in [ensemble] or at weddings in the past
- Sirong means "shade" or "shelter", used in Cotabato City, Simuay, and other downriver areas
Rhythm
In duyug/sirong, all [palabunibunyan] players play phrases two beats in length, with emphasis at the beginning of each beat.
- the beginning of each beat is accented to signal an opportunity for creativity in improvisation
- the weak beats (sub-units) can be repeated or altered
- while improvising, players can either introduce new sub-units or reintroduce previously utilized sub-units
- stylistic options, like doubling of strokes, striking two gongs at the same time, or alternative uses of upper/lower gongs can be used in conjunction with repetition
Form
Duyug/sirong pieces begin and end with some conventions:
- pieces begin with gong 3, sometimes in conjunction with gong 2
- final section contains new musical phrases and ascent to gong 7
- duyug/sirong pieces always end on gong 3 or 5 on beat 1