[For Beginners] A Collection of Gamelan Masterpieces [Introductory Guide]

GeneticDewa Alit & Gamelan Salukat

Dewa Alit & Gamelan Salukat – Genetic

A signature piece by Gamelan Salukat, led by Indonesian composer Dewa Alit, who continues an innovative quest rooted in tradition.

First introduced abroad in May 2020, this work is remarkable for the way its bronze percussion resonates with a timbre that feels almost electronic.

From the exchange of complex rhythms that breaks the silence to the overwhelming section where the entire ensemble rings as if it were one giant zither, the development is stunning.

The theme of “genetics” embedded in this piece speaks to the will to inherit tradition while creating new music.

Premiered in Europe at a Dutch music festival in April 2022, it’s a number drawing worldwide attention.

If you’re seeking a thrilling musical experience beyond the bounds of tradition, this is a must-listen.

Kosalia AriniI Wayan Beratha

Tabuh kreasi – Kosala Arini

This is a 1969 piece in the Gong Kebyar style by Indonesian master I Wayan Beratha, a figure who bridged tradition and innovation.

Its greatest appeal lies in its dramatic development: from a quiet introduction to the sudden roar of the percussion ensemble, then a striking contrast as it shifts into a gentle bamboo flute solo.

The distinctive “beating” produced by slightly detuned instruments envelops the whole with a shimmering resonance.

In addition to being included on the album “Explorer Series: Bali – Gamelan & Kecak,” a 1998 recording of the work has also become a globally used music teaching resource.

It’s the perfect number for immersing yourself in an otherworldly acoustic space.

Prahu LayarKi Nartosabdho

Perahu layar Pl. 6 – Ki Nartosabdho

An irresistibly cheerful and breezy melody that feels like an invitation to the seaside on a day off.

This piece is by Ki Nartosabdho, renowned as a master of the Indonesian shadow puppet theater Wayang Kulit, who left behind more than 600 compositions over his lifetime.

The song’s lyrics are lovely too, depicting the joy and restraint of friends sailing out to sea in a sailboat and then returning to prepare for work the next day.

Included on the compilation album “Gebyar Campursari 1,” it’s also well-loved as teaching material in local schools.

The shimmering tones of bronze percussion unique to gamelan and the dance-like drum rhythms are sure to captivate even first-time listeners.

A perfect track for a drive or as background music on your day off.

Prahu LayarKi Nartosabdho

Nella Kharisma – Prau Layar | Dangdut [OFFICIAL]

This is a single released in 2006, composed by Ki Nartosabdo, a musician who brought innovation to Indonesian tradition.

Also known as a narrator for shadow-puppet theater, Ki Nartosabdo created many signature pieces, and an alternate version of this song was released in July 2000.

Written as a “play song,” it evokes a peaceful scene of heading out to sea by boat on a holiday and laughing together with friends.

Its friendly melody has a pop-like quality and seems to free the heart from the bustle of everyday life.

With no complex development, it’s an easy introduction to the sound of gamelan for first-time listeners.

A perfect number for when you want to take it easy.

Kodok Ngorek

Sarwo Laras – Kodok Ngorek [Traditional Music]

This is a historic form of gamelan music that has been performed in sacred Javanese court rituals since the 12th century.

The piece is tied to a mythic episode that traces the origin of the music to the croaking of frogs, and the overlapping resonance of bronze percussion instruments evokes a chorus of frogs echoing across rice fields at night.

Its weighty, cyclical rhythms and the solemn sonority produced by a distinctive three-tone structure—including instruments like the kempyang and ketuk (bell-tree type)—have the power to draw listeners into a meditative, otherworldly space.

The work is included on releases such as the 1971 LP “Java: Historic Gamelans,” and has traditionally been performed with great care only at official ceremonies such as royal coronations.

It’s a recommended number for moments when you want to step away from daily life and quiet your mind, or immerse yourself in a richly exotic soundscape.

Wilujeng

Sarwo Laras – Wilujeung [Traditional Music]

This piece, long cherished and performed in Central Java, Indonesia, carries a ceremonial character.

From the smooth introduction led by the bowed string instrument rebab, the gradual addition of chorus and various percussion creates a compelling layering of sound.

Imbued with wishes for “safety” and “happiness,” it has a gentle warmth that seems to embrace the listener.

Passed down as traditional music, its performances have been preserved not as commercial recordings but through sources like radio broadcast tapes.

It follows a form based on a 32-beat cycle, whose complex rhythms produce a pleasing, multi-layered resonance.

Try listening when you want to calm your mind or when you’re welcoming a new beginning.

Not Great MenSEKAR-MELATI

Gang of Four cover

We are Sekar Murati, a Javanese gamelan ensemble from Gifu.

This piece is a gamelan-arranged cover of a song by the British punk band Gang of Four.

It’s really interesting to compare it with the original, so please give the original a listen as well.