Gamelan
The term gamelan refers to certain types of orchestra from Indonesia. Most gamelan ensembles are largely made up of tuned percussion instruments. The Hallé's set is typical of those found in Java, and includes gongs and metallophones of various shapes and sizes, as well as xylophones, drums, bamboo flutes and a two-stringed fiddle. Manufactured by Suhirdjan, a respected gong-smith from the city of Yogyakarta, the Hallé gamelan is named Ruming Laras (Fragrant Harmony).
Gamelan is a versatile educational resource and an accessible way of experiencing the music of a non-Western culture at first hand. Up to twenty players can be accommodated at any one time and the variety of instruments available and aural method of working mean that material can be adapted to suit participants of all ages and abilities. In addition, the gamelan's traditional role as accompaniment for dance and theatre leads naturally into creative cross-arts projects.
There are a number of ways in which individuals and groups can access the Hallé gamelan:
One-off workshops at Zion Arts Centre, Manchester
These usually take place on Thursday mornings. The focus of the session is on learning traditional playing techniques and repertoire.
Residencies
It is possible to arrange for the gamelan to come to your school or organisation for a longer period of time - usually from a couple of days to a week. This enables a larger number of participants to access the instruments and opens up the possibility of developing more in-depth work with specific groups over a number of sessions. Further information on the Hallé's gamelan programme can be obtained by contacting Claire Mattison or Steve Pickett.
University of Manchester
Hallé Education currently runs a gamelan course for second-year undergraduate music students at the University of Manchester. The course culminates with an annual lunchtime concert in the University’s Cosmo Rodewald Hall.
This year’s lunchtime concert will take place on Thursday 26 April 2012, 1.10 – 2.00pm. Attendance is free and open to the public.
