Asadia proud ‘Taboh’ being performed at wedding
SIBU: The Sarawak Dayak Iban Academy (Asadia) felt proud and honoured after its ` Taboh’ ( Iban traditional music) team members were invited to perform at a wedding ceremony in Kuching recently.
` Taboh Ngambi Indu’ is a music performance to accompany the traditional practice of bringing the bride home.
Asadia head Mabong Unggang said its ` Taboh’ team was invited to perform at a reception ceremony for the newlyweds Melvin Khung Boon Ming and Vanessa Sumie Jackson.
He said the strong applause and feedback from the audience was evidence that the team had performed very well.
“Among the audience were those who had never heard of ` Taboh Ngambi Indu’ before,” he said.
“That could be true because weddings in urban areas usually have a live band or karaoke music system during the ceremony.
“Even when ` Taboh’ is used, it is usually the regular ` Taboh’ music for ` ngajat’ (dancing) played.
“This may contribute to ` Taboh Ngambi Indu’ being forgotten and eventually made extinct,” he said.
On a separate note, Mabong said Asadia is running a ` Taboh Ngambi Indu’ class conducted by John Nuga, an expert in Iban arts especially ` Taboh’.
Other than `Taboh Ngambi Indu’, John also teaches ` Taboh Kuntau’ ( Iban martial art) and `gendang pampat’ (drums), he pointed out.
Those planning to include traditional music at their wedding ceremony may contact Asadia.