RCM Sparks is hosting a series of Gamelan workshops suitable for schools, homeschooling or community groups.
The gamelan is a traditional form of music from Indonesia, made up of an ensemble of percussion instruments such as metallophones, gongs and drums. The º£½ÇÂÒÂ×¹Ù·½ has one of the largest sets in Europe. Gamelan uses repeating rhythms and patterns, creating a shimmering, almost magical sound. It also uses scales called slendro and pelog, which sound quite different from the Western major and minor scales, giving gamelan a special, other-wordly tone.
Even if you’ve never played an instrument before, gamelan is accessible and fun to try, offering a beautiful way to experience a different musical tradition.
A typical taster session (for up to 30 people) lasts 90 minutes and includes:
• A short introduction to the cultural context of gamelan
• Explanation of the instruments and how the ensemble works
• Practical/hands-on introduction to each instrument type
• Playing together as a group with some improvisation-style activities
• Putting patterns together to learn and play a simple traditional piece
Become a Friend of the RCM
From £52 a year, RCM Friends enjoy priority booking, exclusive events and waived ticket fees.
