Sape' Class for Beginner

About the Course

This course is organised by SapeBoy Music and co-organised by Shin Creation, with the support of the TAS Foundation.
The primary objective of this Sape’ learning program is to provide learners with a solid foundation in both the technical skills and cultural heritage of the Orang Ulu, focusing on the traditional Sape’ music of the Kenyah and Kayan tribes. This course aims to equip students with essential skills, techniques, and a deep understanding of the cultural heritage tied to the Sape’ so they can perform with confidence, authenticity, and respect for tradition.

Throughout the program, learners will be guided to master the correct playing posture, precise hand positioning, and effective strumming or plucking techniques. These foundational elements are crucial to producing clear, resonant tones that capture the unique sound of the Sape’. Students will engage in targeted exercises designed to improve finger coordination, tonal control, and the ability to transition smoothly between notes. This technical training will build their fluency and precision, essential for authentic performance.

In addition to technical skills, students will learn to read and interpret basic Sape’ tablature or notation systems, enabling them to accurately play traditional melodies and rhythmic patterns. The program places special emphasis on developing aural skills, training learners to recognize the Sape’s distinctive tunings, modal scales, and ornamentations. Through this focused listening practice, students will gain an intuitive understanding of the musical nuances that define sape’ music.

The course also highlights cultural appreciation, educating learners about the historical significance and ceremonial roles of the Sape’ within the Orang Ulu community. Understanding this context enriches the musical experience and fosters respect for the tradition. By the end of the program, students will be able to confidently perform at least one contrasting traditional piece, demonstrating not only technical mastery but also expressive artistry that honors the rich legacy of the Sape’ and its people.

Date:
(Wednesdays)
Oct | 1 8 15 22 29
Nov | 5 12 19 26
Dec | 3

Time:
7:00pm - 9:00pm

Age:
7 & above

Class Size:
 8 - 10 pax

Course Fee:
RM800 - 10 classes

Enquiry
📞 +011 - 7002 3235 /
      +014 - 366 0672
📧 wongshawnfinian@gmail.com
       shincreation@proton.me

Shawn Finian Wong, an Orang Ulu—Kayan indigenous tribe sape’ player from Miri, Sarawak, began his Sape’ journey at the age of 14 under the mentorship of Hallan Hashim and Garry Sudom, both prominent sape’ leaders and experts in Miri. Officially performing since 2018, he gained widespread recognition at the 2022 Borneo Jazz Festival. In 2023, Shawn won the BNF Sape’ Competition, cementing his status as a rising star within the Sape’ community. Passionate about preserving tradition, he is dedicated to raising awareness and fostering appreciation for the Sape’, ensuring its rich cultural heritage endures. Currently, Shawn actively promotes the Sape’ to audiences in Kuala Lumpur by conducting classes and performing at various government functions, educational institutions, cultural events, and arts festivals. His artistry blends skill, authenticity, and heartfelt storytelling, captivating audiences while honoring the legacy of this iconic Bornean instrument.

About SapeBoy Music

Founded in 2023 by Shawn Finian Wong, originally from Miri, Sarawak, SapeBoy Music is dedicated to promoting the Sape’ through a variety of initiatives. Its mission includes showcasing the instrument through live performances, providing education via Sape’ music classes, and offering entertainment that celebrates this unique cultural heritage. By doing so, the company aims to share the beauty of the sape’ with both local communities and audiences around the world.

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About Shin Creation

Founded by Yeow Lai Chee and formed as a sibling sub-group to Soubi Sha in 2025, Shin Creation’s main objective is to explore the fusion of modern and traditional music to produce sounds with therapeutic benefits for the audience on the belief that such music is increasingly important in today’s fast-paced and high-pressure society. Shin Creation focuses on creating healing music, combining other art forms such as dance and visual arts incorporated into theatrical performances. It aims to provide a space where audiences can slow down, find relief from the chaos of everyday life, and embrace music and therapeutic arts for self-healing.