Javanese Gamelan (MPF2201.01)

Nicholas Brooke

A practicum in playing and hearing the gamelan, the Central Javanese percussion orchestra. Students will learn about court and local traditions of Indonesia while playing classic works of karawitan (loosely translated as “weaving”), the multilayered repertoire of Central Java. Weekly rehearsals will focus on navigating the intricate levels of irama (rhythm), pathet (tonality), and the ornate elaboration of the balungan, or basic skeletal melody. Performers will be expected to play all instruments—from gong to metallophones—while orally learning and memorizing tunes. The course will culminate in a performance. Students will be expected to master readings on karawitan, and keep a weekly practice regimen.


Learning Outcomes:
* Learn to listen and perform in an ensemble context, responding sensitively to other's musicianship.
* Learn about the culture informing Javanese Gamelan, and in specific experience a musical context quite different than most student's experiences.
* Learn specific musical and rhythmic concepts that may provide inspiration and contrast to their previous musicianship skills.


Delivery Method: Fully in-person
Course Level: 2000-level
Credits: 2
Th 7:00PM - 8:50PM (Full-term)
Maximum Enrollment: 16
Course Frequency: Once a year

Categories: All courses , Ethnomusicology , Fully In-Person , Performance
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