Gamelan Courses

MUSI 232a/b, Central Javanese Gamelan Ensemble. 
An introduction to performing the orchestral music of central Java and to the theoretical, cultural and aesthetic discourses of the gamelan tradition.  Student form the nucleus of a gamelan ensemble that consists primarily of tuned gongs and metallophones.  The course culminates in a public performance by the ensemble at the end of the semester.  No previous musical experience required. This class also requires students to explore cultural background of gamelan tradition through reading articles and watching films and discussions in class. (permission of instructor required; meets during reading period) 
 

MUSI 233b, Cultures and Performing Arts of Central Java
This course explores how music and theatre traditions engage with culture, history, and tradition of performing arts in central Java with a particular focus on the role of the gamelan ensemble. Students gain first-hand experience in Javanese Wayang theater, a traditional shadow puppet performance in which the gamelan serves as a musical accompanist. This course is designed to not only give performative and practical experience of central Javanese gamelan in the traditional style, but also presents opportunities for students to examine cultural and historical aspects of the shadow puppetry tradition and gamelan music in central Java. We focus specifically on 1) the musical language and structure of central Javanese gamelan music in the context of shadow puppetry performance, 2) the historical tradition and practice of shadow puppetry, and 3) livelihood of traditional performing arts in contemporary sociocultural and religious contexts. (Prerequisite: MUSI 232 or permission of the instructor)