Gamelan
We operate two weekly inclusive gamelan performance groups for adults, which meet on Wednesdays from 2pm – 3pm for beginners, and 3pm – 4pm for our advanced class in Connswater Shopping Centre, Belfast.
Open Arts has had the magnificent hand-carved Javanese gamelan orchestra for nearly 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.
Upcoming events
Starting Tuesday 17th September for 4 weeks is our new FREE beginners course for kids. Perfect for disabled and non-disabled children and young people. No prior musical experience is needed.
Register here.
Start the Bounce Arts Festival weekend on Friday 4th October by immersing yourself in the enchanting sounds of our beautiful traditional Indonesian instruments. During the session you will play the instruments and finish with a soothing gong bath.
Time:
3 – 4pm
Tickets are free, but spaces are limited so book early to avoid disappointment.
Then immerse yourself in one of our soothing monthly sound baths. Let the rich, resonant tones of the gamelan wash over you, dissolving stress and tension while promoting relaxation.
Time:
11 – 12 noon
