EE00001238

Sape is a traditional lute of the Orang Ulu community of Sarawak, traditionally used by the Kenyah, Kayan and Kelabit tribes. It was once played solely during healing ceremonies at the longhouse, but gradually became a social instrument used as a form of entertainment. Carved from a bole of white wood, the Sape is about over a metre long and approximately 40 centimetres wide. Initially this instrument measured less than a metre and had only two rattan strings and three frets. Today it has up to five strings held by movable wood frets and are tightened or loosened with wooden pegs. This solo instrument’s music is thematic, more often than not inspired by dreams. There are specific compositions for specific ceremonies and situations (marriages, births, harvest times, rain, etc.) which often differ from one sub-ethnic group to another. Typically, the Sape is played while sitting cross-legged on the floor and is used to accompany dances; one for the men's longhouse, the other for the women. Examples include the Ngajat (warrior dance) and Datun Julud. When played for a dance usually two Sapes are used and tuned to different registers of low and high. Sape is occasionally supported by other musical instruments such as jatung utang (wooden xylophone).