The gong is a percussion instrument formed from a circular metal disc. Its origins can be traced back to 6th-century China and elsewhere in Southeast Asia. Deceptively simple in design, the gong is nevertheless an essential element in traditional music from this part of the world. Furthermore, its adoption by classical music composers and later by rock and roll drummers has placed the gong very much at the forefront of modern-day musical composition. Besides its use in music, the gong is symbolic of many faiths. It's also played a role as a signaling device, and is even used for sound therapy. So, just how ubiquitous is this iconic but little-known idiophone?
Click through and sound out the gong's role in music, culture, and religion.