MUS3490 - Indonesian Gamelan: Special Studies

Leader: Made Hood

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2008 (Day)

Synopsis

The unit aims to develop advanced Javanese gamelan performance skills, develop critical reading and writing skills based on the relevant literature and foster an interest in and understanding of contemporary composition for gamelan. It includes the study of advanced gamelan theory and performance practice, and ideas, techniques and historical and recent developments in gamelan composition, both in Java and internationally.

Objectives

On successful completion of this unit, students should have consolidated their performance skills on all core instruments of the gamelan and acquired performance knowledge of at least one advanced gamelan instrument. They should also be familiar with the complexities of performance-related theories of mode and structure, regional stylistic variants of Javanese gamelan music, and the concepts of traditional gamelan composition and their application to contemporary composition.

Assessment

Essay (2500 words): 25%
Critical reading assignment: 10%
Written/oral assignment/composition: 15%
Performance assessment and concert: 40%
Examination (1 hour): 10%

Contact hours

3 hours (1 x 1 hour lecture and 1 x 2 hour practical performance class) per week

Prerequisites

Previous relevant practical experience and audition.

Prohibitions

MUS2490