This simulator models one 16-key Tausug gabbang recorded by Katunog in Jolo, Sulu. A gabbang is a xylophone whose split-bamboo keys rest loosely above a wooden box frame and are struck with two beaters.
Key length shapes pitch: longer keys produce lower notes and shorter keys produce higher ones. Gabbang made by Tausug, Sama Bajau, Yakan, and Palawan communities can differ in size, tuning, and number of keys.
In Sulu, the instrument is played on its own and with singing. A National Library survey of Sulu musical life describes it as the area’s most popular musical instrument.
The gabbang also belongs to living teaching traditions. Yakan master Uwang Ahadas, recognized as a Manlilikha ng Bayan, taught gabbang and other instruments to younger musicians.
The playable instrument uses Rano S. Anjah’s recorded samples. The player also includes two reference recordings from the same Katunog session. Its note numbers describe this sampled set; they are not a universal tuning chart.
- Tradition
- Tausug
- Keys
- 16 split-bamboo keys
- Recorded
- Jolo, Sulu
- Performer
- Rano S. Anjah