Balinese Gamelan Music

Enjoy the explosive sounds of the bronze orchestra

Course Details

Inspire-works have invested in their own highly decorative Balinese Gamelan orchestra consisting of numerous gongs and metallophones that they bring to each workshop to enable everyone present to play for the full duration. During this introduction to Balinese music participants will find out about the meaning of music in Bali, about the instruments, structure of the music and the playing techniques.

Under the skilful guidance of our workshop leader, participants will soon be able to play a vibrant, traditional piece of music such as the 'Baris' (warrior dance) or the 'Topeng Tua' (old man masked dance) on the bronze percussion instruments that may be used for performance. Participants will also watch a live performance of the same piece on video by Balinese musicians to appreciate the music in its authentic setting.

This workshop is adapted to be suitable for students from Foundation Stage up to Key Stage Five.

Learning outcomes

Participants will:

  • develop knowledge and appreciation of music unique to another culture
  • learn how music is taught in Bali through memorization, mnemonics, phrasing and pulse
  • explore a pentatonic tonal soundscape that is not diatonic or at western pitch/temperament
  • discover how Balinese music is intrinsically linked to dance
  • learn a traditional piece of music
  • develop ability to work in an ensemble

Relationship to the National Curriculum

Key Stage 1
Music: 1b & 1c
Key Stage 2
Music: 1b & 1c, 4d, 5e
Key Stage 3
Music: 1b & 1c, 2a, 4d, 5e

For a detailed look at these descriptions, please visit the National Curriculum on-line at www.nc.uk.net. This workshop also helps to fulfil and enhance many aspects of the criteria of Key Stage Four and Five specifications.

Space requirements

A hall, which MUST BE ON THE GROUND FLOOR with easy access for our van as the gamelan weighs 1.1 tonnes! The space will need to be at least 28" x 28". We will need 1 hour to set up. A TV and DVD player will also be required.

Length of Sessions

Maximum 30 participants per group.
Key Stage 1: 30-45 minutes per session.
Key Stage 2: 1 hour per session.
Key Stage 3: 1 hour per session.
Key Stages 4 & 5: ½ day/ full day - please contact us for more details.

Cost

£300 Full Day (Max 5 hours)
£215 Half Day (Max 3 hours)

Mileage

Mileage is charged at 40p per mile outside a 15-mile radius of the facilitator's base. We use www.multimap.co.uk to assist our mileage calculations.