Gamelan

Is the traditional ensemble music of Java and Bali in Indonesia, made

up predominantly of percussive instrument. The most common instrument used are
metallophones played by mallets and a set of hand-played drums called kendhang
which register the beat. Other instruments include xylophones, bamboo flutes , a
bowed instrument called a rehab, and even vocalist called sindhen.
Although the popularity of gamelan has declined since the introduction
of pop music, gamelan still commonly played on formal occasion and in many
traditional Indonesian ceremonies. For most Indonesian, gamelan is an integral part
of Indonesian culture.
Javanese Gamelan
Most of the instrument ensemble are metal percussion made of brass,
iron, or bronze (bronze instrument generally have the best sound). A typical
ensemble also has drums, wooden bar percussion instrument, plunked string
instrument, bowed string instrument, and bamboo flutes. Gamelan music is a
communal art form, playing the music requires a strong attention to the music of
the whole group Javanese gamelan does not stress virtuosic displays of musical
talent.
Balinese Gamelan
Very similar to Javanese Gamelan music. The music is in cycle too,
however it is usually faster. One of the characteristic of Balinese gamelan music is
that it has a lot of sudden change in tempo and dynamics . Like the Javanese
gamelan the instrument in Balinese gamelan includes metallophones and gongs.