About the MIT Balinese Gamelan

Gamelan is the traditional music of Bali and Indonesia. A Balinese gamelan consists of gongs, bronze metallophones and pots, hand drums and bamboo flutes, creating shimmering layers of rhythmically intricate, lyrical patterns.  Students will learn the basics of this unique musical practice by playing and performing on traditional Balinese instruments, culminating in an end-of-semester performance.  Students will also learn how gamelan fits into Bali’s rich, multifaceted culture. No prior experience is necessary.

Students will also have the opportunity to rehearse with Community Gamelan, a well-respected Boston-area community gamelan directed by Gusti Komin.  Community Gamelan performs regularly throughout New England, focusing on both traditional and modern Balinese music and dance.  (Student performance is limited to the MIT Spring Concert).

A six (6) unit performance course credit is available to eligible students.