Indonesian Gamelan Music

A Gamelan is a percussion orchestra that originates from Java, Indonesia. It is made up of large hanging Gongs, giant Xylophones, Drums and other unusually shaped and beautifully ornately decorated instruments and is traditionally played in the courts and palaces of Java. The players remove their shoes and sit on the floor on cushions to play the instruments as a sign of respect, which is an essential part of Indonesian culture.

The Gamelan instruments provide a valuable resource tool for explore training focussed issues that have arisen as part of a pre-planning session. These may include issues such as time management, communication, leadership and productivity and cultural awareness.

The communal aspect of Gamelan music means that it is instantly accessible- essentially you hit the instrument and it makes a sound. The challenge is to learn to play a specific piece and to play together in time as a group. As the notes are pitched, the group will learn tunes on the instruments.

In a short session the group will learn to play a traditional Javanese piece or create their own group composition. Some of the instruments are easier to play than others and therefore there is scope for people who wish to be more or less challenged.

Gamelan is a great equalizer as all the participants are equal in their roles as 'musicians' and there are opportunities for different members to take on lead roles. The fundamental role of Gamelan music requires that every part, no matter how simple, forms part of the overall structure and all parts must be present to make it work.

back