The Cheltenham Gamelan

A 'gamelan' (translated as 'hit with a hammer') is an ensemble of percussion instruments on which the traditional music of Java and Bali is played. It usually consists of metallophones (xylophones) and gongs, the best ones made of bronze, and mounted on beautifully carved and painted wooden frames. It has a distinctive and melodic sound and accompanies dances and all-night shadow-puppet plays in Indonesia.

The Cheltenham gamelan was made in the foundries outside the Royal city of Surakarta (Solo) in central Java, Indonesia. The lovely white roses carved on the wooden frames were designed specifically to complement the Pump Room, although one of the wood carvers was apparently somewhat baffled as to why anyone would want what he took to be cabbages on their gamelan!

Many aspects of playing the gamelan match targets within the music curriculum, the most obvious being playing by ear and from memory, learning about pitch, dynamics and tempo, and taking part in group performances. As a result the Cheltenham Gamelan is becoming an increasingly popular resource for all key stages in schools.

As well as a thriving schedule of schools' workshops, the Community Gamelan Players meet regularly to develop their interest in this beautiful music. It enhances other skills such as listening to others and working as a team, and is therefore ideal for corporate functions, team-building exercises and parties; with no previous experience participants can, within a short time, play a real Javanese composition and have a lot of fun along the way.

For further information or to make a booking, please contact Philippa on:
T: 01242 775891
E: philippa.claridge@cheltenhamfestivals.com