Talempong Pacik

Talempong Pacik and Tambua Tansa: The Minang Art Forms

Among the traditional arts still practiced today are tambua tansa, the plate dance, the plate dance on broken glass, randai, saluang, talempong, rice stalk pupuik, and the art of sprouts.

Tambua Tansa, in particular, is closely associated with community celebrations. Even official government events are frequently enlivened by Tambua Tansa performances.

Generally, Tambua Tansa has developed across the nagari (villages) in Agam Regency. Its most rapid development, however, occurs in the Lake Maninjau interchange area and Lubuk Basung District.

The Tansa is a small-sized Tambua drum struck with two special rattan sticks. It functions as the command instrument for the Tambua musicians. The dancer leading the Tambua group determines which song or rhythm will be played.

The Tambua itself is crafted from specific types of hollowed-out wood. Sizes vary: some are large, with diameters of about 50 to 60 cm. This type is called Tambadang Gadang. Smaller Tambua, with diameters of 25 to 30 cm, are known as Tambua Kaciak (small drum). A typical group includes 6 to 12 Tambua drums.

Tambua Tansa can be used to gather people. It is often played during communal activities like road construction or the building of other public facilities.

Typically, the group leader or the nagari leader will play the tambua tansa at the mutual assistance site in the morning. The thundering sound quickly calls the community members to the location.

Once work begins, Tambua Tansa continues to motivate the workers. The rhythm is usually lively and accompanied by the sound of the rice stalk pupuik and the cheers of the laborers. This helps them forget their fatigue and the intense heat of the sun.

At weddings and feasts, Tambua Tansa is essential for creating a vibrant atmosphere. The celebration feels incomplete without its powerful roar.

Tambua Tansa is also used to welcome honored guests. This typically happens during official visits to the nagari by figures such as the regent, deputy regent, police chief, governor, camat, and others.