
Interlocking Melodies in Contemporary Balinese Gamelan
Contemporary music in Balinese Gamelan consistently extends and develops interlocking techniques, as groups continue to play more elaborate compositions. In this clinic/performance, Gamelan Mojomanis will perform a variety of instrumental pieces from the Balinese gamelan tradition. The program will showcase techniques and concepts unique to the tradition, including various interlocking techniques, a paired tuning system, and dynamic ensemble performance. Our instruments, called Gong Kebyar, consist of metallophones of different sizes, tuned gongs, cymbals, and double-headed drums. The centerpiece of the session will be a performance of Tabuh Telu Mentik, which was recently composed by Ciiiaaat of Bali and taught to Mojomanis during a recent residency. This will be one of the first performances of the piece in America, and will showcase some newer techniques used by contemporary ensembles.
In addition to the performance, we will explain in detail some of the unique aspects of the music, and invite audience members to play on the instruments themselves.



