For the remainder of 2020 we are inviting families and ‘bubbles’ to come to the BlueJam Art Space to have a jam on our gamelan. Led by an experienced instructor in a large room with social distancing observed at all times, your bubble will learn how to play this magnificent instrument and make some gorgeous music as well as creating some rather special memories together. A Gamelan session is a great way to relax and be creative as a bubble. Playing the instrument itself is quite meditative and can help give you time to step away, process and reflect on the times we are currently living in.
This has been an incredible experience for our children! They have been allowed to explore a range of instruments – some they are familiar with, some not. And there has been no expectation made of them – just a freedom to play and indeed learn in an environment that inspires, delights and reassures. Sensitive and expert teaching and guidance showed an awareness of my children’s individual needs and preferences, of their anxieties and their areas of confidence. This is a space where joy unfolds new confidence and new discoveries and not just for the kids but for the whole family.
You do not need to be musical to play the gamelan – there are really easy and more difficult parts so everyone can join in. If you can’t sit on the floor instruments can be put onto tables so you can sit on a chair to play. Our space is wheelchair accessible but sadly our old building has no disabled toilet.
(the videos on this page were recorded before Covid-19 and social distancing)
Gamelan session at BlueJam ArtsPosted by Blue Jam Arts on Tuesday, 19 March 2019
Some information about the Orchestra, how the instruments are grouped together, which mallets to use, and some simple traditional tunes to try out.
By Sarah Kekus.
A Gamelan Jam at BlueJam lasts for one hour. During the session you will:
There are no age restrictions on Gamelan Jam sessions – all are welcome.
Gamelan piecePlaying bonang and saron
Posted by Blue Jam Arts on Tuesday, 12 March 2019
Gamelan Sessions are available during daytimes, evenings and weekends depending on instructor availability. All you need to do to book a session is to e-mail us (admin @bluejamarts.org) with three options of dates/times that you would be free to have a Gamelan Session plus how many people are in your family group/bubble and we will go from there. Each session costs £40 per family group/bubble – this is to cover the instructors time and hire of the room. This should be paid online before the session (we will send you the link when we confirm your booking). Easy as pie!