Guide to the Gamelan

by Neil Sorrell

An introduction to the history, music and instruments of the gamelan, this book describes how the gamelan is made and its influence on Western composers. Its publication ties-in with the Festival of the Gamelan, held on London's South Bank in July/August 1990.

Genres: Music

Paperback

First published November 1, 1990

Reviews

[C. B.]

An interesting introduction, although be warned: this is a musicological exploration of Central Javanese varieties of gamelan only. If—like me—you’re interested in the West Javanese degung or Balinese gong kebyar varieties, you’ll have to look elsewhere. The opening chapter on Western attention towards gamelan is probably the highlight. I’d have liked more about cosmological, historical, and experiential perspectives on the music.

[Sawyer Lowe]

My brother gave me this for Christmas. It was great, I will read it again. Good gong knowledge.