The History of the Gong – One of the Truly Timeless Musical Instruments of the World

Although Chinese culture and history only places the inception of the first gongs in the 5^th century AD, historians believe that these amazing musical instruments are actually much older. According to some experts, gongs might date back hundreds of years before that period, around 200 BC.

 

Experts with drums Denver area agree that manufacturing gongs was also a distinguished ancient craft that can be compared to the creation of bells in medieval Russia. Java, Burma and Annam were three of the most important places where gong makers resided, and where there were also many coveted family secrets revolving around how gongs were made.

 

The gong’s history is extensive. Being one of the first and most distinguished musical instruments in Ancient Chinese culture, it is closely associated with social rank and spirituality. Ancient monks used gongs as a symbol of spiritual power and often also to summon spirits. Additionally, the gong was, and to some extent still is, an important symbol of the status and success of families in various Asian cultures.

 

Today, gongs are more of a showpiece than anything else, although that doesn’t necessarily apply to families that still hold to the ancient ways. Found primarily in museums, however, gongs are no longer as common as they used to be, and many of their ancient spiritual secrets remain restricted to Buddhist and monestaries.

First Seen over here: The History of the Gong – One of the Truly Timeless Musical Instruments of the World