Gamelan includes parts that are quickly learned along with those that reward a lifetime of study. It thus allows for musicians of greatly varying abilities and experience to play together. Cornell’s varied course offerings reflect this range of challenge, while also providing different options in terms of credit and time commitment.

Gamelan in Indonesian History and Cultures (MUSIC 2341)

This 3-credit course combines a systematic introduction to playing gamelan with a seminar that explores the full range of music in Indonesia. It assumes  no previous experience with music.

Cornell Gamelan Ensemble (MUSIC 3610)

This 1-credit performance course allows students who have taken MUSIC 2341, along with those with applicable musical skills, to study more advanced repertoire. On occasion we engage in special projects exploring gamelan’s connection to other performing arts and/or contemporary composition and improvisation. 

Advanced Instruction in Gamelan (MUSIC 4641)

This 1-credit course offers students enrolled in MUSIC 3610 focused instruction in more advanced instruments and parts.

New course offered in spring 2023:
Collaborative Creativity (MUSIC 2130)

With guest instructor Gondrong Gunarto, a freelance composer and gamelan musician from Surakarta, Indonesia. More information.

For more information, watch this trailer or search for “gamelan” in courses.cornell.edu.