The existence of the gong dates back to the Bronze Age, around 3500 BC. For centuries a gong was viewed as a symbol of status and success among Asian families and the secrets of gong making were closely guarded. Since the time of Buddha in 600 BC, sacred gongs have been inscribed with the two characters “Tai Loi”, which means happiness has arrived. Some of the ancient uses for the gong include meditation, healing, communication, and announcing the beginning of ceremonies. Gongs were also used in European orchestras from 1790 onwards and are currently a part of orchestras around the world. Gongs are made of a bronze alloy which consists of approximately 75 percent copper, 20 percent tin and 5 percent nickel. They are carefully hand hammered and refined by the artisans whose soul is imbued in the finished product. According to Don Conreaux, “gong makers believed that a gong could only succeed with the help of higher powers.” Touching a gong is believed to bring a person good luck, health, and happiness; however, it is important to have permission to approach a gong. Respect for the physical gong and the spirit of the gong is of primary importance.
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