From the Program Notes:
Gamelan is the preeminent orchestral tradition of Indonesian music.
Flourishing in Bali & Java, the gamelan ensemble is the central element
of both traditional and new music in this region. Admired for both it's
colorful orchestration layers of rhythmic activity, and elaborate
structures based on long lyrical melodies, gamelan is one of the great
classical traditions of the world.
The Gamelan Program at University of Missouri in Kansas City
Gamelan Genta Kasturi (roughly translated to mean "Ensemble of the
Blossoming Sound") was formed in February 2003. The ensemble includes
players from both student and community groups. The traditional gamelan
semara dana (seven tone) instruments were commissioned by UMKC in 2001,
and were constructed by Bali's foremost composer and gongsmith, I Wayan
Beratha. The orchestra consists of finely tuned bronze gongs,
metallophones, and gong-chimes, accompanied by flutes and fiddles. Many
of the instruments are intricately carved and painted with scenes from
the Hindu Ramayana and Indonesian folklore. The University is fortunate
to have I Ketut Gede Asnawa directing the ensemble. |
