EKSPLORASI ETNOMATEMATIKA PADA GAMELAN “SARON” DI JERO GEDE TAINSIAT

Abstract

Saron is a gamelan instrument commonly played during large ceremonies. In Sekaa Gong Saron Lila Arsa, the saron consists of eight square-shaped petung bamboo blades with seven types of slendro notes. Among these bamboo blades, two produce the same tone but have different pitches. The saron is played by striking the bamboo blades using a beater made of bamboo, with the end wrapped in rubber to form a half-ball shape. This research uses a qualitative method with an ethnographic approach to explore the mathematical elements contained in the saron gamelan and their relationship with ethnomathematics. The subject of this study is the manager of Sanggar Sekaa Gong Saron Lila Arsa, I Gusti Ngurah Gede Agung Mariswara. Data were collected through observation, documentation, and interviews. The findings show that ethnomathematical concepts are present in the form and construction of the saron gamelan. The shape of the bamboo blades reflects the geometry of flat shapes, particularly rectangles. In addition, measurements used in the making of the saron involve the concept of arithmetic sequences and multiples of numbers. The crafting process also uses non-standard measurement units, such as a hand span. Furthermore, the arrangement of the bamboo blades from the lowest note to the highest note follows the concept of arithmetic sequences and multiples, which are also taught in school mathematics.