I was given the opportunity to interview Awang Haji Sharbini bin Begawan Pehin Khatib Dato Paduka Awang Haji Moksin, also known as Sharbini HM, who is considered one of the country’s most reputable gambus (traditional mandolin) players.
His interest in gambus began when he was 14. He would practise whenever he could, be it after the evening prayers or during school holidays.
His growing passion for the instrument spread through his village of Kampong Burung Pinggai, with 10 other children following suit.
A few years later, he was invited to lead Noorul Kamar, a gambus band, and began his journey as a musician in the wedding circuit.
He soon quit the band and on friends’ suggestion, formed a new band called Gambus Gataran Irama Kampong Burung Pinggai.
The group would often be found playing local songs, and when requested, recorded nashid songs for Radio Television Brunei.
As the band moved forward, they changed their name to Gambus Gataran Irama Warisan.
In 2005, the band was invited to perform in Japan, where they received “Best Performance” award by defeating four other countries.
At 63, Sharbini HM is still actively playing gambus.
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