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Wednesday, January 9, 2008

Balinese music














The word gamelan is simply the Balinese word for ‘orchestra,’ and there are many types of orchestras in Bali. Gamelan is a generic term, and there are a dozen or more completely different kinds of ensembles. That most commonly seen by visitors is called a gamelan gong and consists of from 25 to 50 men, most of them seated on the floor or on low stools, who play a group of xylophone-like instruments, assorted sizes of tuned gongs hanging in frames, some smaller single percussion instruments resembling inverted pots or cymbals, and two cylindrical, double-ended drums.



The main function of any gamelan is not to entertain tourists. The group’s primary function is to assist in the many ceremonies and activities ranging from massive, village-wide temple ceremonies to private family functions such as weddings or the dedication of new buildings. The musicians must be able to play at any hour of the day or night or both, as demanded by the ceremony in progress. They may accompany a priest in his devotions, or they may accompany entertainments, such as temple dances. There is no such thing as a professional musician in Bali. The gamelan players are rice farmers or village artisans or hold any other jobs – they are musicians during their time off.


Adapted from Bali – Sekala and Niskala by Eisemen Jr, Fred B



[9:09 AM]


Posted at 9:09 AM, 0 Comment(s)


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