The image of Sundanese women in the Jaipongan dance of Mojang Priangan

Department of Dance Education, Faculty of Arts and Design Education, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, Bandung, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: tnarawati@upi.edu

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the ideal image of Sundanese women depicted in the song “Mojang Priangan” from 1960 and in the “Mojang Priangan” dance performed in the Jaipongan genre in 2000. Dance and song as cultural products embody cultural values that have historically evolved due to various influences. Understanding the cultural and historical context underlying these songs and dances requires a deep analysis of the song lyrics and dance choreography. This research employs an ethnochoreological approach, combining ethnic dance studies with ethnomusicological analysis to understand the relationship between music and dance in cultural and ethnic contexts. This approach focuses on performance semiotics, viewing performing arts as layered entities consisting of text layers (art theory analysis) and context layers (analysis from various relevant scientific fields). The research method used is qualitative with the following steps: (1) structuring the dance; (2) describing the dance; (3) analyzing the lyrics and dance text; (4) synthesizing the text and context of the Mojang Priangan song and dance; (5) comparing the song and dance texts; and (6) interpreting the Mojang Priangan song and dance. Data was collected through observation, interviews, and document analysis. The results show that Iyar Wiarsih’s song Mojang Priangan portrays Sundanese women as beautiful, educated, graceful, well-dressed, and behaving elegantly according to the ideals of the 1960s. The lyrics reflect the aspirations and hopes of the Sundanese community at that time. On the other hand, the Mojang Priangan dance, adapted into the Jaipongan genre by Ega Robot Percussion, depicts Sundanese women as agile, energetic, and independent. The choreography demands body flexibility and upright posture, reflecting a dynamic and strong image of women. The main difference between these two images is the change in values and demands of the times, requiring an improvement in the quality of Sundanese women’s values over time