which has seen much infrastructure development over the years, has already embraced modernization

Papua Indonesia, postbantennews.com

which has seen much infrastructure development over the years, has already embraced modernization in several aspects of life. Yet, the legacy of the Tifa has remained protected to this day.

In the simplest terms, Tifa is a percussion instrument. Though it produces music when struck, like several traditional Indonesian instruments, what makes Tifa stand out is its close association with folklore and verbal traditions.

Papua province is not only rich in natural resources, it is also home to countless diverse and unique cultures. Among Papua’s signature cultural symbols is a traditional music instrument called Tifa, whose name has become synonymous with the province.

Different tribes have passed on their own myths and stories on the origins of the Tifa. According to one version prevalent in Biak, the instrument was first wrought by an orphaned boy from the village. As the story goes, the boy had been invited to a party, which every villager had been asked to attend.

As was custom then, all the villagers attending the party had to bring something from home. This saddened the boy, who did not have anything to bring.

It was while he was walking in the forest thinking about this that he chanced upon a lizard, who was striking his stomach and producing a sound very similar to a percussion instrument. When the lizard asked him why he looked unhappy, the boy told him of his predicament. (henry/lie lince/pn/ant)

Related Posts