MUM4480

Performance studies: Indonesian gamelan

Aline Scott-Maxwell

12 points -4 hours per week -First semester -Clayton -Prerequisites: MUS1060, MUS2480 or MUS3480 or prior experience in gamelan practice/theory and audition -Prohibitions: MUS3490

Objectives By the end of the semester, students undertaking this unit should have consolidated their performance skills on all the core instruments of the gamelan; advanced performance ability on at least one gamelan instrument; an understanding of the musical role, style and performance practice of all the advanced gamelan instruments and the solo vocal styles of macapat and sindhen; and an understanding of theoretical concepts intrinsic to traditional gamelan compositions, as well as more recent developments in composition for gamelan.

Synopsis This course is intended for students who have already acquired adequate performance ability in Javanese gamelan. It also caters for students who have a compositional interest in gamelan. It aims to develop advanced gamelan performance skills, and foster an interest in and understanding of contemporary composition for gamelan. Lectures address (1) advanced gamelan theory and performance practice, and (2) ideas, techniques, and historical and recent developments in gamelan composition, both in Java and internationally.

Assessment Essay (4000 words) or composition works for gamelan equivalent to 2000 words: 35% -Written/oral assignments: 15% -Performance assignments and concert: 40% -Examination (1 hour): 10%

Back to the 1999 Arts Handbook