The fifty performers of Gamelan Sekar Jaya, the Bay Area's acclaimed gamelan ensemble, present the driving rhythms and refined dances of Bali in this beautiful garden setting. Led by two of Bali's most brilliant artists, Putu Putrawan (guest music director) and Ida Ayu Ketut Suciawani (guest dance director) Sekar Jaya will feature two large percussion orchestras: the bronze gamelan gong kebyar, and the ensemble of giant bamboo marimbas, gamelan jegog. The outdoor setup reflects the open-air settings used in traditional Balinese contexts, where groups often play within or in front of temple courtyards. The audience is welcomed to enjoy the performance from various sides and perspectives, to enjoy the complex interlocking rhythms and virtuosic ensemble sensibility of Balinese gamelan, and the myriad expressions and delicate hand and eye motions of Balinese dance.


Gamelan Sekar Jaya at YBGF.

Find out more about Gamelan Sekar Jaya.


Music in the Gardens 101 is a series of narrated concerts that provides audiences a unique and invaluable opportunity to hear first-hand from master musicians about the music they perform, and their personal sources of inspiration. The series is designed to appeal as much to the musician and non-musician; as much to a grandparent as to a child.

The 2007 Music in the Gardens 101 Series includes:
blacKMahal Punjabi Funk Experience 101 - Sunday May 20
Venezuelan Music Project Roots of Afro-Venezuela Music 101- Saturday June 16
Dr. Loco and Tom Rigney From Tabasco to Salsa 101 - Saturday August 25
Gamelan Sekar Jaya Balinese Gamelan 101 - Saturday September 22