Gamelan Sekar Petak
Department Ensemble
Gamelan music originated on the islands of Java and Bali, in Indonesia. It is played by an ensemble (also called a Gamelan) predominantly comprising bronze gongs and metallophones, with bamboo flutes, strings and other percussion. The University of York instruments - named ‘Sekar Petak’ (‘White Flower’) in honour of Yorkshire’s white rose symbol - was the first purpose-built Javanese gamelan in a British university. The instruments were first assembled and played in 1981, having been commissioned by the Department of Music's Dr Neil Sorrell from master craftsman Bapak Tentrem Sarwanto. On 22 November each year, the anniversary of the Gamelan is marked by an informal playing session at which it is presented with flowers and fruit.
Audition information:
Gamelan Sekar Petak is open to all members of the University without audition
Rehearsal information:
Friday (2-4pm)