Gamelan
Discover how the Gamelan Ensemble builds musicality, teamwork, and cultural appreciation through Javanese Gamelan traditions.
Gamelan Ensemble
The Gamelan Ensemble nurtures students’ appreciation for music by immersing them in the rich traditions of Javanese Gamelan and Singapore’s evolving cultural landscape. Through exposure to a diverse repertoire, students develop musicality, discipline, teamwork, and a strong sense of cultural identity within the rich, rhythmic soundscape of Gamelan.
Students learn the unique striking techniques required to play a range of Gamelan instruments including metallophones, gongs, xylophones, and drums. Playing Gamelan is inherently collaborative, requiring deep listening, coordination, and shared responsibility, as each instrument contributes a vital layer to the ensemble’s interlocking rhythms and melodies.
Beyond musicianship, the Ensemble fosters leadership development. Senior members take on active roles in student-led outreach activities, including mentoring junior members, planning events, and promoting cultural appreciation within and beyond the school community.
In 2024, the Ensemble was awarded the Certificate of Distinction at the Singapore Youth Festival (SYF) Arts Presentation, a testament to the students’ dedication and passion for their craft. In July 2025, the Ensemble collaborated with Meridian Secondary School’s Angklung Ensemble to perform at the Singapore Youth Festival (SYF) 2025 Celebrations featured "Kaleidoscope", held at Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay.
Achievements:
SYF Arts Presentation 2024: Certificate of Distinction
SYF Arts Presentation 2022: Certificate of Participation
Session Details:
Monday, 2:15 pm - 3:45 pm
Friday, 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Teachers-in-Charge:
Mdm Rita Zulkarnain (OIC)
rita_zulkarnain_taha@schools.gov.sg
Mdm Chen Lijun
Combined Session with Other Schools
Cooperative Learning from Each Other
SYF Practice Session: Kompang Interlude