Samrah Musical Performance in Bekasi City, West Java Province

Some tourists might wonder what they can do in Bekasi City. Well, aside from visiting waterparks and natural attractions, they must not forget to watch several traditional performances like Samrah. This musical tradition is influenced by the development of Islam Civilization in Indonesia, which is in the form of art. For those who want to see the physical evidence of such civilization, they can visit Al Barkah Grand Mosque instead. For the information, Samrah was once called Harmonium. The first performance was done during the reign of the Dutch and it remained as the local tradition until now.

The Nuance
In a nutshell, Samrah was born due to the Islam’s influence. No wonder, the participants wear Arabic attire and play several instruments especially harmonium. Other musical instruments used in this performance are guitar, violin, and tambourine. These people gather in an open field and play those instruments harmoniously! Not to mention they sing a song during the show. For tourists, it indeed becomes a distinct entertainment when they are visiting Bekasi City. What they need to consider is only the schedule, as the locals don’t perform it every day.

Exploring Samrah Musical Performance
The influence of Islam has made Samrah Musical Performance popular in Bekasi City. Not only it has become a local tradition, but it also attracts tourists to visit the region. In terms of name, it derives from the Arabian Language “Samarokh”, which means “to gather”. No wonder, during the performance, both participants and audience gather in an open field and hold the event together. So, is it only about musical performance?

The fact is Samrah also involves other arts including dances, theatrical acts, and poems. Even the audience is allowed to participate by clapping their hands and follow the harmony to their heart’s content. As for the songs, there are some popular choices including Kicir-Kicir, Sirih Kuning, Angsa Dua, and Jali-Jali. Despite such traditional songs, the performers wear the Arabian attire! That means it is the combination of local and Arabian culture (which makes it unique and interesting). For the information, after the musical and dance performance, the show ends with theatrical acts and poem reading.

So, when can tourists watch or join Samrah? It is said the locals only hold the performance during special occasions like circumcision, weddings, and big days of Islam. Thus, they must come at those times if they don’t want to miss it. Also, it is recommended to come with a local guide who can tell further information regarding the history and meaning of the show. It’s worth spending, for sure.

Nearby Attractions

• Namat Public Fishing Pond
• Go Wet Waterpark
• Kembang Market
• Jakarta City

How to Get There
The distance between Bandung City (the capital of West Java Province) and Bekasi City is 133 km. That means the trip takes about 2 hours and 25 minutes to get there. Have no worries. It becomes faster if they take Purbaleunyi Highway and Pantura Street. Once again, they must know the exact schedule before coming to Bekasi for watching Samrah Performance.

Where to Stay

• Asa Hotel
• Green Hotel
• Aston Imperial Hotel
• Amaroosa Hotel
• Horison Hotel