Gongs

Dating back to 500 A.D., gongs may very well be some of oldest musical instruments to come out of Southeast Asia. In ancient Asian society, gongs were seen as a sign of wealth and just touching a gong was thought to bring one great fortune and strength. Early gong- makers themselves were thought to have assistance from a higher power because great skill and knowledge was required to successfully make a gong. Musically, the gong was prominent in celebrations, ceremonies and was also used as an orchestral instrument in high society.

Today, percussion gongs of all sizes are featured in marching bands, orchestras and specialized music settings. Every gong style and size has its own unique sound character. Gongs are played with a mallet and provide different voices and sound nuances depending on the point at which you strike it. Gong percussionists often use words like harmonic, complex, impressive or charismatic to describe the gong’s musical persona.