Saluang is end-blown bamboo flute known throughout the Minangkabau land. The characteristic is on the continous sound produced by circular breathing in relatively free meter. It is usually accompanies dendang, Minang classical singing. Its melody wander slightly from the vocal line, and both melodies layered in between phrases. Sometimes the saluang produces a countermelody with an intricate melodic ornamentation and dynamic variations. Themes of the songs are usually about love and nature. The singing is also related to lament called ratok, in which the singer-mourner sings the main theme of loneliness. Most Minang men have a tradition to leave home to far away places (marantau) and left their family behind. Saluang dendang traditionally can be performed all night long.
