RCM Sparks is pleased to be hosting a series of Gamelan workshops in April 2026 suitable for schools or community groups.
The gamelan is a traditional form of music from Indonesia, made up of an ensemble of percussion instruments such as metallophones, gongs and drums. The Royal College of Music has one of the largest sets in Europe.
Gamelan uses repeating rhythms and patterns, creating a shimmering, almost magical sound. It also uses scales called slendro and pelog, which sound quite different from the Western major and minor scales, giving gamelan a special, other-wordly tone. Even if you’ve never played an instrument before, gamelan is accessible and fun to try, offering a beautiful way to experience a different musical tradition!
A typical taster session (for up to 30 people) lasts 90 minutes and includes:
• A short introduction to the cultural context of gamelan
• An explanation of the instruments and how the ensemble works
• A practical/hands-on introduction to each instrument type
• Playing together as a group with some improvisation-style activities
• Putting patterns together to learn and play a simple traditional piece
The workshops will take place on Thursday 16 and Friday 17 April in the RCM Recital Hall. Please contact gamelan@rcm.ac.uk to make a booking enquiry.
Thursday 16 April sessions:
• 11am-12.30pm
• 1.30-3pm
Friday 17 April sessions:
• 11am-12.30pm
• 1.30-3pm
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