THE ROLE OF RITUAL MUSIC IN THE STRATEGY FOR IMPROVING CULTURAL TOURISM IN THE MENTAWAI ISLANDS

Abstract This research is motivated by the fact that globalization and increasing competitiveness have influenced tourist preferences, especially in the Mentawai Islands district, who are now more likely to seek authentic and different experiences. These changes have also influenced the consumption patterns of local communities, who are now beginning to appreciate and support the preservation of their own culture. This research is qualitative research with a descriptive and inductive approach . Qualitative research is research conducted to explore the condition of natural objects, with the researcher as the key instrument. Based on observations, there are two musical instruments that are always used by sikere in carrying out traditional rituals, namely; 1) the tuddukat musical instrument or arat sabulungan is an integral part of the beliefs and culture of the Mentawai tribe. Tuddukat , as a traditional musical instrument, is not only used in entertainment contexts but also in traditional and religious ceremonies that intersect with the Arat Sabulungan belief system . 2) gajeuma ' musical instrument . This musical instrument is not only a musical instrument, but also an important symbol in Mentawai culture. The gajeuma musical instrument is made from selected wood and lizard skin, this instrument has a deep meaning for each tribe or uma . Because of its sacred and symbolic nature, Gajeuma' for the Mentawai people cannot be loaned to other tribes because it is a symbol of pride and honor for every community that owns it. At this time the gajeuma' musical instrument is not only used for rituals, but acts as entertainment for tourists because it is very attractive to tourists because every ritual procession of tourists is directly involved in the event. Keywords: ritual, sikere, tourism, culture