Named for the 'gong,' or the most fundamental instrument of the ensemble, gamelan gong kebyar is the most prevalent form of gamelan music in Bali, performed on an orchestra of bronze-keyed instruments. Gong kebyar music is known for its virtuosity, acoustic brilliance, with both sudden and gradual contrasts in tempo and dynamics.
In this community class series, students will explore interlocking “kotekan” patterns, mallet technique, expression, and the role of each instrument in the gamelan ensemble. No prior musical training or gamelan experience is required - just bring your enthusiasm. This class is also a great opportunity for students with gamelan experience to improve their skills and try playing new instruments. For ages 12 and up!
On the last class date on November 6, students will have an opportunity to play with a group of Sekar Jaya members to experience the feeling of playing with a full gamelan ensemble and connect with the Sekar Jaya community. Students are invited to bring their friends and family to the final rehearsal to share what they've learned.
All class participants are required to be fully vaccinated and to wear masks while inside the GSJ banjar community center.
Classes will be held from 10:30am - 12:00pm (1.5 hours) on the following dates:
Saturday, October 16
Saturday, October 23
Saturday, October 30
Saturday, November 6
When choosing your sliding scale rate, please keep in mind that GSJ depends on the generosity of its community to support high caliber artists and programming.
Katie Harrell
Katie has been a performing member of GSJ since 2013 and is co-coordinator of the gamelan angklung ensemble. In 2015, Katie was awarded a Fulbright scholarship for a year-long study of traditional vocal music in Bali, where she also studied gamelan gender wayang. Throughout her time with Sekar Jaya, Katie has been a member of each of Sekar Jaya's four musical ensembles and the dance ensemble. She has experience in teaching gamelan in Sekar Jaya's public workshops, as well as assistant teaching in school residency programs with I Dewa Putu Berata. She loves Balinese music and is excited to share her knowledge and enthusiasm with anyone who is willing to learn. Katie got her start in learning gamelan music with Daniel Schmidt while pursuing her MA in Composition from Mills College in 2011.
