MIT BALINESE GAMELAN & GAMELAN GALAK TIKA

Gusti Komin, Director

Gamelan is the traditional music of Bali and Indonesia. A Balinese gamelan consists of gongs, bronze  metallophones and pots, hand drums and bamboo flutes, creating shimmering layers of rhythmically intricate, lyrical patterns.  Students will learn the basics of this unique musical practice by playing and performing on traditional Balinese instruments, culminating in an end-of-semester performance.  Students will also learn how gamelan fits into Bali’s rich, multifaceted culture. No prior experience is necessary. 

Students will also have the opportunity to rehearse with Gamelan Galak Tika, a well-respected Boston-area community gamelan directed by Gusti Komin.  Galak Tika performs regularly throughout New England, focusing on both traditional and modern Balinese music and dance.  (Student performance is limited to the MIT Spring Concert).  

A six (6) unit performance course credit is available to eligible students.

More information: http://www.galaktika.org

CONCERTS

Fall 2025

• Wednesday, December 3, 2025 - 8pm - Tull Concert Hall (Building W18)

Spring 2026

•  Sunday, May 3rd, 2025 -  7 PM - Tull Concert Hall (Building W18)

AUDITIONS

• There is no formal audition or music experience required for the Balinese Gamelan class; only an interest in learning to play any of these instruments.  MIT students wanting to take the class should register for 21M.450 and attend the first class meeting on Wednesday evening, September 3th from 7 to 10 PM. Classes are held in W18-1202 Music and Culture Space.
• Anyone wishing to participate only in Gamelan Galak Tika should reach out to Gusti Komin (komin@mit.edu) directly.
• Instruments are provided; no previous experience is necessary.

Audition Information For All Music Ensembles