GAMELAN

Gamelan is the music of Indonesia (pronounced Gah-Meh-Lahn). Gamelan orchestras are usually percussion oriented, but some varieties may feature flutes, bowed and plucked strings, or vocalists in a prominent role. Many different islands have their own unique Gamelan instruments and traditions.

The most common types of Gamelan use bronze, iron, bamboo, or wood bars, as well as bronze and iron gongs, gong chimes, cymbals, bells, and two headed drums. Gamelan-like instruments are found in Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, and other Southeast Asian nations.

The word of Gamelan comes from the ancient roots "gambel" (Bali) and "gamel" (Java). Gambel means to play, musically. Most Indonesian languages define gambel as to make a sound by striking or playing a musical instrument, such as a gong or a drum. However, earlier languages, such as Kawi in Bali and Jawa Kuno in Java, also define the term as to handle or hold, as a musician handles an instrument or a worker handles a tool.

Gamelan is usually played only for big events in some provinces, especially Java and Bali. Gamelan is one of the musical art in Indonesia that very popular in many countries. Many tourists who like to try playing gamelan.

Link : http://www.balibeyond.com/gamelan.html

Posted by : Vera Annisa