Gamelan

We operate an inclusive weekly Gamelan performance group for adults, which meets on Wednesdays from 3pm – 4pm in Connswater Shopping Centre, Belfast.

“I love playing in the Gamelan with the nicest people you could wish to meet.”

Open Arts has had the magnificent hand-carved Javanese Gamelan orchestra for over 30 years and is the only full Javanese Gamelan in Northern Ireland. It is an extraordinary collection of melodic percussion instruments from Indonesia comprising gongs, metallophones and drums of various shapes and sizes.

As well as being stunningly beautiful to look at, the Gamelan has an other-worldly, vibrant, sonorous sound. The instruments are uniquely accessible to play and have been played by thousands of disabled people, of all ages, over the years. Many participants feel the sounds and reverberations of the gamelan are incredibly relaxing and soothing, which helps with their mental health and wellbeing.

For more information about any of our music programmes or to organise a bespoke Gamelan session for 5 – 12 people please contact Bev, Bev@openartsni.org or phone 028 9024 0765.

Gamelan Taster Workshops

Throughout May we are hosting four exciting taster workshops at Connswater Shopping Centre, Belfast BT5 5LP, where you will explore the beauty of playing the Gamelan. Suitable for disabled and non-disabled people, aged 18+ and no musical experience is necessary. To register your place please complete this form with the dates you would like to attend.

**Places are limited for each session so early registration is recommended.

After completing a taster workshop, you will have the opportunity to sign up for a 4-week beginner course.