Definition

Noun: A traditional Indonesian musical ensemble, primarily from the islands of Java and Bali. It is characterized by a large number of tuned percussion instruments, such as metallophones (metal-keyed xylophones), xylophones, gongs, and drums. The music is often cyclical and used to accompany rituals, dance, and wayang (shadow puppet) theater.

Usage

The word "gamelan" refers to the ensemble as a whole unit, not to an individual instrument. It is typically treated as a singular collective noun.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The serene sound of the gamelan filled the temple courtyard.
  • She has studied gamelan music for over a decade.
  • A complete gamelan is considered a sacred entity in some Javanese traditions.

Advanced Usage

• Cultural Context: In its places of origin, a gamelan is often given a proper name and treated with great respect. The specific tuning and composition of instruments are unique to each set.
• Western Adoption: The term is used internationally to describe both the ensemble and the genre of music it plays. Universities and communities worldwide have established gamelan groups for study and performance.

Variants and Related Words

• Gamelan Gong Kebyar: A dynamic and dramatic style of Balinese gamelan.
• Gamelan Degung: A Sundanese (West Java) ensemble, typically smaller and using a distinct scale.
• Gamelan musician: A player in a gamelan ensemble.

Synonyms

• Percussion orchestra (This is a descriptive synonym, though it lacks the specific cultural connotations of "gamelan".)
• Indonesian orchestra (A general, non-technical synonym.)

Related Idioms and Phrases

There are no common English idioms or phrasal verbs that incorporate the word "gamelan," as it is a specific cultural term.

Noun

1. a traditional Indonesian ensemble typically including many tuned percussion instruments including bamboo xylophones and wooden or bronze chimes and gongs