Please note that Spring term is an intensive course, running from June 10 to a concert on July 5. Rehearsals run on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 4pm to 6:30pm.
Balinese gamelan (semara dana) are ensembles of primarily percussive instruments made of bronze and bamboo that may include drums, flutes, strings, and voice. Grebel offers an opportunity for students to play in two ensembles: gamelan semara or gamelan gender wayang (details below). An oral tradition taught and learned collectively, repertoire is transmitted in a group setting without the use of sheet music. Directed by Balinese artist I Dewa Made Suparta, students experience a communal process of creating music while also learning about the culture of Bali. No previous experience with gamelan or notation is necessary.
In this in-person ensemble, in keeping with the oral process of teaching and learning in Bali, emphasis is placed on listening, memorization, and embodiment through repetition, imitation, and consistent practice.
1. Participant Form
To participate in the Balinese Gamelan Ensemble you need to fill out the Participant Form every term. This includes returning students. There is no LEARN for Ensembles, so this is a crucial step. For further questions please email Angelica Allen, Ensemble Coordinator. Everyone on the Participant List will get a reminder.
2. Information Session
If you have not participated in the Gamelan previously, you will need to attend an information session on Monday, June 10 at 4pm in room 1209 at CGUC
New Players Info Registration
3. Quest
Register on Quest if you are taking the Ensemble for credit. Please note that MUSIC 416 and 417 have been added to the Ensemble Course list. Also note it is your responsibility to drop the course on Quest if you do not pass the audition or choose not to participate. An Ensemble credit is 0.25 units AND you can add this on a normal course load or ask your advisor for permission to override your course limit. There is a $30 fee for students who are not taking the Ensemble for credit, and non-students will be charged a $60 fee.
4. Course requirements
- In person rehearsal Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:00-6:30 pm. June 10, 2024 at 4:30 will be the first session for returning players, with an intro session on June 10 at 4pm for those who are new to the Gamelan or who would like a refresher (see above).
- Participation in an end of term concert on July 5, time tba. Location: Elora Festival,
- Read the Gamelan information sheet. (coming soon)
- If a one time per week commitment is better for you, Grebel also provides a Community Gamelan.
Please note there is a participation fee for non-students, both in the Community Gamelan and the student Gamelan.