The Gamelan Ensemble (pronounced gah-meh-lan) consists of a myriad of primarily percussion instruments, including metallophones, gongs and gong chimes. Other key instruments include drums (which lead the ensemble), a celempung (string-instrument) and a suling (bamboo flute).
The Ensemble originates from Central Java, part of the culturally-rich nation of Indonesia. Royal proceedings of the Royal Javanese Courts in the 19th Century were never without a Gamelan Ensemble accompaniment.
Playing a gamelan instrument is relatively easy – it requires no prior grasp of music theory. However, mastering it is a mean feat. The pieces are cyclical in nature, with the balongan playing the main melody, while others act as elaborating or punctuating instruments to mark important points in each cycle.
Hailing from three different countries, the Gamelan Ensemble of NUS High comprises a team of individuals with a strong passion for the musical arts. We believe in cultivating an appreciation for the splendour and beauty of Javanese culture among youths in NUS High.
Currently in our fifth year since inauguration in 2005, the fledgling Gamelan Ensemble of NUS High has made many appearances in various functions and occasions, to much acclaim by distinguished individuals such as Ex-Minister of Education Tharman Shanmugaratnam, and 77th Street Founder Elim Chew.
Many opportunities are provided for our students to excel and develop their budding talents. In 2008, two of our students, Aaron Ong and Kylie Goh were invited to perform in Lagenda Raden Mas, a musical production by, by renowned performing arts production company, Sri Warisan.
In 2009, the Ensemble will be making its Singapore Youth Festival debut.
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Our Past Performances
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Singapore International Mathematics Challenge (SIMC)
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2008
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NUS High School Speech Day
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2008
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Gamelan Festival @ Republic Polytechnic
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2007
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NUS High School Official Opening Ceremony
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2007
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NUS High School Arts Festival
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2006
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Motto
Our motto ‘Create, Relax and Experience’, reflects our goal of making each CCA session a synergy of creative energy, relaxed enjoyment, and fulfilling experiences.
Contact
For more information regarding the CCA, feel free to contact the following:
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Mdm Rohaida Bte Ismail, Teacher-in-Charge
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nhsri@nus.edu.sg
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Mr Milton Simon Raj, Teacher-in-Charge
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nhsmsr@nus.edu.sg
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Aaron Ong, Member/President of CCA
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h0510124@nus.edu.sg
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Photos
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