Gordang Sambilan is a traditional art form of the Batak Mandailing tribe. "Gordang" means drum or large drum, while "sambilan" means nine. Gordang Sambilan consists of nine drums of varying lengths and diameters, each producing different tones. Typically, it is played by six people, with the smallest drums (numbers 1 and 2) called taba-taba, drum 3 called tepe-tepe, drum 4 called kudong-kudong, drum 5 called kudong-kudong nabalik, drum 6 called pasilion, and drums 7, 8, and 9 collectively known as jangat.
Originally, Gordang Sambilan was only performed during sacred ceremonies. However, as social culture has evolved, it is now commonly played at various events such as weddings, welcoming ceremonies, and major holidays. As a cherished part of Indonesia's cultural heritage, Gordang Sambilan has even been performed at the presidential palace.
