VIVAnews - They are Portuguese descendants. Through 'Krontjong Toegoe,' they sustain their existence.
'Krontjong Toegoe' is one of the remaining keroncong music groups in Kampong Tugu, Kelurahan West Semper, Cilincing Subdistrict, North Jakarta. The group, established on July 12, 1988, was formed by a 'Tugu' Arend J Michiels. Tugu is a term used for Portuguese descendants in Jakarta. Tugu is derived from the word Portuguese.
The Tugus are convinced that keroncong is a heritage from Portuguese-blooded troops living in Kampong Tugu in the 17th century. "The word [keroncong] originates from the sound of a small guitar being the main instrument in the music: crong, crong, crong,..." said Arthur Michiels, a 'Krontjong Toegoe' musician.
The entire crew of 'Krontjong Toegoe' are Tugu youth. They include N. Yanto (violin - tutor), Arend J. Michiels (cello), A.S. Michiels (lead guitar), Y. Leonard Kalelufna (lead guitar), Andre J. Michiels (prounga), Efraim Abraham (mancina), Martinus Cornelis (guitar - rythm), Dicky Deady Michiels (guitar - rythm), Benjamin Abraham (lead guitar), Alfondo Andries (percussion) and Arthur J. Michiels (contrabass).
'Krontjong Toegoe' is quite popular among keroncong musicians. It is an internationally-acclaimed group. The group has been invited to perform in the Netherlands several times.
Arthur said that he and the musicians of his generation are the keroncong Tugu musicians of the tenth generation. To preserve Tugu culture, they are regenerating. Therefore, 'Krontjong Toegoe' Junior, the Tugu musicians of eleventh descendants, was set up in early September. "Nobody forced them to," said Arthur.
The first appearance of 'Krontjong Toegoe' Junior amazes the audience of Kampong Toegoe Festival which was held at Tugu Church yard, West Semper, Cilincing Subdistrict, North Jakarta, Nov 15.
Arthur went on to say that the distintion between 'Krontjong Toegoe' and other genres of keroncong lies in its rhythm and songs. 'Krontjong Toegoe' has more dynamic and spiritful rhythm. This is an influence of the feast-adoring Portuguese.
In addition, the songs are mostly in Portuguese such as Cafrinho, Jan Kaga Leti, Moresco and Gatu du Matu. "The lullaby 'Nina Bobo' is also the song to lull Tugu's babies. The word 'Nina' comes comes from 'Menina' which means little girl," said Arthur.
In addition to 'Krontjong Toegoe,' there are other keroncong groups in Tugu including 'Moresco Tugu' and 'Cafrinho Tugu.' Amidst rapid development of modern music in Jakarta, they are trying hard to keep the cultural heritage. "We welcome non-Tugus who are willing to join," said Arthur.
Translated by: Bonardo Maulana W
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