Gamelan Sekar Jaya

In 1992, an audience member took a gamelan class on a whim… “I have no musical talent, but it seems fun.” He turned out to have a lot of talent, and played with Gamelan Sekar Jaya for 16 years! People just like you have discovered their artistic passion through our workshops.

Seasonal workshops in music and dance

Each season Gamelan Sekar Jaya offers a series of in-studio workshops in both music and dance at our banjar (center and studio). Master Balinese artists-in-residence utilize traditional learning methods of direct imitation and example, without the use of notation. Bali’s core values of balance, harmony, and interdependence are evident in both music and dance, and in their close coordination. Pease click here for info on upcoming workshops.

Music and Dance demo—ideal for a class or school assembly

This is our most widely used program. Three to five performers, including master Balinese artists-in-residence, come to your school and demonstrate gamelan instruments, dance, costumes, and how they all fit together. Bali’s lovely ethos of balance, harmony, and interdependence shines through in the glittering rhythms of interlocking rhythms, melded with a Balinese flair for dramatic presentation. This can be tailored for any size audience or assembly. Length: 30 to 90 minutes. Please email or call to arrange.

Hands-on gamelan workshop

For students ages 8 and up, in groups of up to 18 children. This can either be a one-time session or a multi-week program. Students get to play the gamelan angklung, a 4-toned orchestra, which is an ideal size for both children and adults. The angklung orchestra is made up of different size metallophones and gongs and can be transported to your school. Please email or call to arrange.

Special presentations and residencies

Lectures, demonstrations, small performances, residencies, and other programs are possible by arrangement. Our educational programs can be customized to fit your needs. For example, a workshop on Balinese puppetry or traditional offering making. A multi-week school residency by one of our artists, on music, dance, and/or puppetry. A presentation in a university class on aspects of Balinese performing arts in cultural context, or techniques of interlocking rhythms. Please email or call to discuss. 

More questions? Please email or call us at 510-655-1227