Research Article
From the Baroque Dance Suite to the High Classical Symphony
Hal M. Switkay*
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 4, August 2025
Pages:
74-80
Received:
19 June 2025
Accepted:
9 July 2025
Published:
28 July 2025
Abstract: The origin of the Classical symphony has long been a mystery. The Baroque dance suite and the concerto were popular musical forms in the 17th century and early 18th century, both consisting of collections of shorter musical pieces. Those who listen to classical music are left to wonder whether the Classical symphony arose spontaneously, or rather grew organically from pre-existing musical forms. We chose to compare the new musical form, the Classical symphony, with the pre-existing musical forms. Using quantitative methods, we propose a tentative explanation for the origin of the Classical symphony in the structure of the Baroque dance suite. We study the components and ordering of 423 movements in 70 dance suites by six prominent Baroque composers. The most common elements of these suites appear to carry part of the evolution of the symphony from its early manifestation as incidental music for operas. The Baroque dance suite explains the transition from the early three-movement symphony to its high Classical four-movement structure. This allows us to see the Classical symphony as a continuation and specialization of the popular Baroque dance suite. It further opens a door to aspiring symphonic composers to find inspiration in the Baroque dance suite, to revitalize this popular musical form.
Abstract: The origin of the Classical symphony has long been a mystery. The Baroque dance suite and the concerto were popular musical forms in the 17th century and early 18th century, both consisting of collections of shorter musical pieces. Those who listen to classical music are left to wonder whether the Classical symphony arose spontaneously, or rather g...
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Research Article
The Mythology Behind the Creation of Blambangan Keris and Its Influence on the Creative Industry
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 4, August 2025
Pages:
81-87
Received:
14 May 2025
Accepted:
3 June 2025
Published:
6 August 2025
Abstract: Given its meaningful and artistic values, Indonesian keris has been recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage. However, contrary to the values in Indonesian culture, many view keris as a mystical object and even consider it an infidel. Keris manifests power and strengths. This interpretation needs to be restored to preserve the cultural meaning associated with keris. The inquiry on the mythological code/symbol of keris is a follow-up research from previous theses (Myth of Mahesa Sura; Toponymy of the Ancient Nusantara Perspective; and Batik Mythology, Meaning of Code, Function, and Strengthening of its Industry (Oral Tradition Perspective), which points to the relevance of mythological symbols in batik and keris. The present study highlights the critical role of triangulating findings about the power of ancient kings manifested in the Blambangan keris. It aims to disseminate findings on (1) the mythology of the creation of Blambangan keris, (2) the meaning embedded in the Blambangan keris motifs, and (3) the function of keris in Blambangan tradition, from the Indonesian oral tradition lens. This study was conducted using a qualitative-critical ethnographic design with a multi-interdisciplinary approach covering mythology, toponymy, semiotics, linguistics, archeology, and arts. Data were garnered through (a) documentation, (b) observation, (c) free-in-depth interviews. The data were analyzed usingcritical ethnography theory coupled with interactive flow model analysis with modifications. This study portrayed a comprehensive narrative about the mythology of the kings in Indonesia based on existing cultural products, especially keris. It corroborates previous studies noting that the symbols on the Blambangan keris indicate that Medang Kawulan existed and that Blambangan was established in Jember region, East Java. Keris mythology can inform the development learning resources and the Indonesian keris industry. This becomes increasingly crucial as keris has experienced economic secularization (profane) into freely traded goods such as replicas, displays, ornaments, and merchandise, leading to the segregation between keris and family/ancestor/lineage symbols.
Abstract: Given its meaningful and artistic values, Indonesian keris has been recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage. However, contrary to the values in Indonesian culture, many view keris as a mystical object and even consider it an infidel. Keris manifests power and strengths. This interpretation needs to be restored to preserve the cultural mea...
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