Why learn gamelan?

Gamelan is an excellent tool for music education. Anyone can play the gamelan. The simplicity of the playing technique required to start off on the gamelan makes these instruments almost instantly accessible by children and adults of all levels of musical experience. And the emphasis which Javanese music places on ensemble skills, listening and singing enriches all other areas of music-making.

Traditional Javanese music is one of the great artistic traditions of the world, and is immediately appealing. Yet the instruments provide innumerable fruitful possibilities for the creation of new music.

“The sense of achievement at the end of two hours made the experience complete.”

Mr. J. Beecroft, Guildhall School of Music, London

Nikhil Dally, gamelan teacher

Nikhil has been teaching gamelan since 1986. He studied intensively for a year at the Academy of Fine Arts (STSI) in Surakarta, central Java. Since 1990 he has been one of the gamelan teachers for the Music Education Department of the South Bank Centre in London. He has performed regularly with the South Bank Gamelan Players, Laras Laris, and Kridha Anggara. From 1996 to 2002 he ran the gamelan programme for Hertfordshire County Music Service. He has taught gamelan for Berkshire Young Musicians’ Trust since 1999.

“Encouraging and yet firm … a real learning process.”

Mrs. J. Saunders, Claridge House Music Makers, Worcester

 “The students’ … abilities were made full use of, … the pace was appropriate and the group were highly involved.”

Mrs. P. Lloyd, Music Teacher,
Breakspeare (SLD) School, Watford

“Excellent teaching, with clear goals, instruction and targets.”

Dr. M. Sachania, The Brigidine School, Windsor

“The children were totally captivated … We haven’t stopped talking about it and the next group can’t wait to go.”

Mrs. S. Kirkbride, Head Teacher,
Goffs Oak JMI School, Cheshunt

“Very clear teaching, fully challenging a group of 16–18 yr. old students.”

Mrs. A. Spensley, Head of Music,
Parmiter’s School, Watford

“A firm but warm approach that engaged the children. They loved it.”

Mrs. R. Birch, Binfield CE Primary School

There are many ways Nikhil can help you
to learn about gamelan:

Introductory gamelan workshops

Much of the time, Nikhil sites his gamelan with Berkshire Maestros in Reading. Whilst it is there, groups of children or adults may visit for hands-on introductory gamelan workshops. No previous knowledge or experience is required, merely a willingness to work very hard and to co-operate musically with each other. These workshops are suitable for any children from school year two upwards, to adults. Special needs groups are most welcome. The length of the workshop will depend upon the age of the group and any special needs, but will not exceed two hours.

The optimum number of participants in a group is 15. The absolute maximum (including all staff) is 21. The minimum is 12, except for certain special needs groups.

Gamelan residencies

If you are able to host Nikhil’s gamelan for a few weeks, it might be able to come to you! If you are interested in hosting a gamelan residency, please contact Nikhil for further information.

Gamelan courses

From time to time, Nikhil offers after-school and evening courses for both children and adults interested in learning about gamelan in greater depth. Please contact Nikhil to register your interest.