The Arts Active gamelan is a complete Javanese percussion orchestra from the workshop of Pak Tentrem Sarwento in Java. The set was bought by the former St David’s Hall and New Theatre Trust (now the Arts Active Trust), with the support of a National Lottery Grant from the Arts Council for Wales, and arrived in Cardiff in April 1998. Since then, thousands of people of all ages have come from far and wide to enjoy playing and listening to the music of the Arts Active Gamelan. 

Try Gamelan

At Arts Active, we strive to inspire individuals of all ages to engage with and enjoy the arts. Our gamelan programme provides a variety of courses and workshops designed for participants of all skill levels, highlighting the inclusive spirit of gamelan music. We offer two-hour introductory workshops for beginners, as well as weekend courses for more experienced practitioners looking to deepen their knowledge and skills. Our goal is to create opportunities for everyone interested in exploring the vibrant world of gamelan.

Cardiff Gamelan

Cardiff Gamelan is our community ensemble that meet on Tuesday evenings. Our repertoire features both traditional Javanese music and contemporary Western compositions for gamelan. This versatile set of instruments makes it possible for individuals of all ages and skill levels to participate. We warmly welcome new members to join our inclusive group, regardless of prior experience. Weekly sessions take place at Chapter Arts Centre in Cardiff from 6 PM to 8 PM.

Musical Director: Helen Woods | Gamelan Producer: Rhian Workman

School groups from across South Wales and beyond have participated in engaging taster workshops, often playing together as a class for the very first time. Gamelan is accessible to everyone, regardless of prior musical experience. Whilst mastering certain pieces and styles may take years, a group can successfully perform a basic traditional piece in just a couple of hours with our fun, hands-on 2 hour workshops.

The Cardiff University gamelan ensemble and students from the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama have also enjoyed having regular opportunities to play the Arts Active gamelan.

Email a2@artsactive.org.uk for more detailed information on the sessions or how to join our weekly workshops.

Schools Workshops

Come and join us for an exhilarating introduction to the captivating world of gamelan music. Our taster workshops features authentic bronze instruments, beautifully crafted with traditional wood carvings. This unique ensemble includes tuned percussion, drums, and gongs, each contributing to a rich cultural tapestry of sound.

Hands-On Learning Experience

Throughout the workshop, students will actively participate, enhancing their listening skills, flexibility, and group music-making abilities. This collaborative environment promotes problem-solving, communication, and self-confidence—key components of personal and academic growth.

Why Gamelan?

Gamelan is a rich and multifaceted subject that can enhance education across various disciplines. Its intricate music-making provides a hands-on way to engage with cultural traditions whilst fostering creativity.

Cultural Exploration

Studying gamelan allows students to delve into Indonesian culture, examining how music intertwines with other art forms such as dance, shadow puppetry, and storytelling. This holistic approach helps students appreciate the importance of arts in expressing cultural identity and community values.

Cross-Curricular Links

Gamelan can be integrated into many subjects:

Music: Students learn about scales, rhythms, and ensemble playing, developing listening and collaboration skills.

Art: Exploring batik design and costume creation can inspire students to express their understanding of gamelan visually.

Geography: Discussing Indonesia’s geographical challenges, like climate change and urbanization, highlights the intersection of environment and culture.

History: Understanding the historical context of gamelan and its evolution can lead to discussions about colonialism and globalization.

Creative Applications

Using gamelan structures, students can experiment with classroom instruments, encouraging them to think outside the box and develop their compositions. This not only nurtures musical skills but also fosters teamwork and innovation.

Social Issues

Gamelan also serves as a springboard to discuss contemporary issues faced by Indonesia, such as the impact of natural disasters and urban challenges. This can lead to meaningful discussions about sustainability, resilience, and cultural adaptation in the face of change.

In summary, gamelan is not just a musical form but a gateway to understanding and appreciating a vibrant culture and the complexities of the world we live in. Its versatility makes it an invaluable tool in education.

No prior experience is necessary to take part in this immersive workshop. Led by an experienced gamelan musician, this session promises to be an enjoyable and relaxed opportunity for both students and teachers to explore the rhythms and melodies of Java.

To book onto a Gamelan workshop please see our Eventbrite listings.