This programme of music continues the journey of a particular approach to gamelan begun in Five Arts Centre’s young people’s performance of ‘Suara Rimba’ in 1994. Principle landmarks along the way have been the Rhythm in Bronze concerts of 1997 and 1999, culminating in the release of Rhythm in Bronze: the CD.
Creating music for our programmes has been a major focus of energy, given the absence of a contemporary tradition for the concertised Malaysian gamelan. The composers represented in tonight’s programme draw from their vastly differing and rich musical experiences in their compositions. We are proud to feature the works of Adrian Lee, I Wayan Rajeg, Michael Veerapan, Nisha Sujatha Arunasalam, Suhaimi Mohd. Zain, Sunetra Fernando, Susan Sarah John and Tan Sooi Beng. This concert also extends the sphere of new music for the Malaysian gamelan in two very significant ways. Firstly, we are proud to present the works of two young composers who are ensemble players with Rhythm in Bronze: Sujatha and Susan. Secondly, Adrian Lee’s contribution to the programme represents a special collaboration which acknowledges the viability of the Malaysian gamelan as a musical orchestra of international significance.
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