The music of Bali is at once some of the most primitive and sophisticated music in the world. Based on a 5 tone scale (which is different in various locales around the island) it is a music steeped in complex rhythmic and tempo shifts. Unlike most western music, Balinese ensembles do not perform concerts for the public directly. Instead, each performance is looked at as an “offering to God” and those who attend these spectacular performances are simply sharing the experience.

Most performances begin late in the evening, around 10pm or 11pm, and continue until nearly dawn. Though they have a religious significance, they are by no means dry, sacred or even overtly serious. Quite the opposite. These are performances for the pleasure of both the deities and the ordinary people in attendance. Some shows play like epic films while others are nearly soap operas, filled with innuendo, local gossip and humor.

These recordings were made in various locations around Bali. It is worth mentioning that few if any performances are done indoors. Concerts are typically done in open spaces with only a metal roof, simple seating and a backstage area for the performers. Much of Balinese music is based on sounds of nature; rain, wind, and the numerous types of frogs that are home there. You will hear occasional wisps of these sounds, just as any Balinese listener would.

These are not recordings made for tourists, but the genuine thing - offerings to the Gods, shared by you and me.

TRACKS INFO:

Tracks 1-13: Performance by the Dharma Jati Group for Teges Kaningan, Peliatan, Bali. Played on the Semar Pegulingan ensemble.

Track 14 - 23: This is a performance by the Yayasan Polosseni's main gamelan group. Semar Pegulingan is the great gong of the palaces of the Balinese Rajas. The sound of the Semar Pegul ingan ensemble was traditionally heard throughout the King's palace in the late afternoon. The music dates back before the time of written history and is likely hundreds of years old. These classical pieces are famous throughout Bali.

Track 23: Arja Opera performance of Dalam Balingkan. Accompaniment by chamber group - Gong Guntangan.