“Wilet” as the Temporal Framework of Gending in Sundanese Karawitan
Keywords:
Wilet, Rhythm, Musical Concept, Time Structure, Sundanese KarawitanAbstract
In Sundanese karawitan, the concept of wilet holds a central role as it defines the temporal and rhythmic framework of gending compositions. Several hierarchical levels of wilet exist namely sawilet, dua wilet, and opat wilet each indicating variations in the number of beats, tempo, and the span of time between goongan. This research seeks to investigate the temporal-rhythmic structure of Sundanese karawitan by analyzing these levels of wilet and their application across different gending forms. Employing a descriptive-analytical design with a musicological perspective, the study draws on data from literature review, performance observations, and musical transcription analysis. The findings reveal that the gradations of wilet not only determine the duration between goongan but also shape the overall tempo and rhythmic nuances of the music. Moreover, kendangan techniques such as salancar and rangkep significantly contribute to establishing the musical character and rhythmic articulation that distinguish one wilet level from another. The study underscores that wilet in Sundanese karawitan should be understood as a dynamic and context-dependent musical structure shaped by performer interpretation, compositional form, and cultural practice rather than a mere metric system. A deeper understanding of wilet is thus essential for pedagogy, documentation, and the safeguarding of Sundanese karawitan, while also opening avenues for future inquiries into the interrelation of musical aesthetics, instrumental technique, and performance practice.
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