1. Gamelan:
* A set of bronze gongs, xylophones, metallophones, and drums played in traditional Malay, Javanese, and Balinese music.
* Originates from Indonesia, but widely used in Malaysia.
2. Gendang:
* A double-headed frame drum of various sizes, often played in ensembles for traditional Malay music.
3. Rebab:
* A bowed string instrument with two or three strings, played in Malay, Javanese, and Champa music.
4. Serunai:
* A double-reed wind instrument, similar to the oboe, used in Malay and traditional dance performances.
5. Angklung:
* A bamboo percussion instrument consisting of a set of tuned bamboo tubes suspended on a frame, shaken to produce a mesmerizing sound.
6. Kompang:
* A single-headed frame drum, used in Malay, Arabic, and Joget dance performances.
7. Kecapi:
* A long-necked lute with metal strings, played in Malay, Javanese, and Balinese music.
8. Gamelan Jawa:
* A specific style of gamelan music originated from the Javanese people and is commonly found in peninsular Malaysia.
Western and Modern Instruments:
9. Piano:
* A widely used keyboard instrument for classical and modern music.
10. Guitar:
* Used in various genres, from rock to traditional Malaysian pop music.
11. Drums and Percussion:
* Western drum kits, congas, bongos, and other percussion instruments are commonly used in modern Malay music.
12. Flute, Violin, and Trumpet:
* Used in classical and contemporary Malaysian music.
13. Synthesizers and Electronic Instruments:
* Widely used in modern Malaysian music and contemporary fusion genres.
Fusion and Contemporary:
14. Sape:
* A traditional lute from Sarawak, played with intricate picking techniques.
15. Suling:
* A bamboo flute associated with indigenous Malaysian music.
16. Didgeridoo:
* Introduced to Malaysia through Australian Aboriginal culture, it's used in contemporary music.
17. Tifa:
* Large hand-beaten drums associated with indigenous and tribal music.
18. Kulintang:
* A set of tuned, horizontally laid gongs from the Philippines, gaining popularity in Malaysian fusion music.
These instruments represent a small portion of the rich and diverse musical heritage of Malaysia, showcasing its blend of traditional, modern, and international influences.