Creating and Conceptualizing a Balinese American Gamelan Community

Abstract

The chapter examines the foundation of academic gamelans and their relationships to nearby community gamelans. Using as an example the gamelans in Colorado and across the Rocky Mountains that are taught by I Made Lasmawan, the chapter discusses how gamelans are founded and supported and the types of artistic and administrative partnerships that are conducive to long-term maintenance of such programs. In this case, substantive financial support for Lasmawan from one key institution, Colorado College, was crucial to his ability to support his family and teach other ensembles part-time at neighboring institutions. In addition, the artistic and logistical support of his family and of members of the high-level Denver-based community group Gamelan Tunas Mekar was crucial for enhancing the quality of academic ensembles’ performances. The chapter concludes that models for academic-community interdependence vary within different geographic and institutional contexts, but building connections between academic and community programs strengthens the likelihood that ensembles will be sustainable.