Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2022 - CA 343 D100

Gamelan II (3)

Class Number: 8031

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 10 – Apr 11, 2022: Mon, Wed, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    GOLDCORP

  • Prerequisites:

    CA 243.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Continuation of CA (or FPA) 243, with increased emphasis on the theoretical and ethnomusicological aspects of gamelan. May be taken twice for credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

Gamelan is one of the Indonesian traditional orchestra consisting mainly of gongs and other bronze percussion instruments, drums, strings, bamboo flutes, and vocals. It is one of the world`s most sophisticated orchestral traditions, yet it is music which includes varying levels of difficulty, and thus the simpler pieces in the repertoire can be approached without training in advanced instrumental, theoretical and practical techniques. An understanding of basic level of music—especially in terms of the fundamental rhythmic skills—would be useful.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

By the end of this course, successful students will be able to:

  • apply principles of gamelan music, both theoretical and practical.
  • assess, evaluate, and reflect on a performance and teamwork.
  • explore, create, and/or compose gamelan music in creative way.

Grading

  • Attendance and class participation (concentration, preparedness, skill based on the student performance achievement 30%
  • Mid term test 20%
  • Group music collaboration/paper presentation 20%
  • Final performance – include a short reflection on the course, preparation and production, and final presentation 30%

NOTES:

Attendance is required at all classes, and out of class practice/performance will be necessary.

Grades are determined mainly by the instructor`s observation of in-class work during the entire semester, and are based on the seriousness of the student`s practice and performance level achieved such as:

  • Commitment and effort (class participations & exercises in consultation with instructor).
  • The ability to put principles into practices (option to create a music composition for final performance, make a power point for class presentation, or summarize/analyze articles/videos related to gamelan, etc.).
  • The quality of musical skill/critical thinking/creative achievement throughout the course.

Notes: The learning process in this course requires diligence and discipline. Students are expected to actively participate in all classes so please come prepared. Any absences will result in a lowered participation mark. Make-up exams will not be standard procedure of this course except in instances of documented illness, in which case prior notification and physicians explanation are both required.

Materials

RECOMMENDED READING:

  • Sorrell, Neil. A Guide to the Gamelan. London: Faber and Faber, 1990 (Online).
  • Pitts, John. Extreme Heterophony : A study in Javanese Gamelan for one or more pianists, 2021. www.pianoraga.com.
  • Brinner, Benjamin Elon. Music in Java: Experiencing Music, Expressing Culture. New York: Oxford University Press, c2008.
  • Sumarsam. Gamelan and the West. Rochester, NY: University of Rochester Press, 2013.
  • Tenzer, Michael. Balinese Music. Singapore: Periplus Eds. (HK) Ltd, 1998.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

TEACHING AT SFU IN SPRING 2022

Teaching at SFU in spring 2022 will involve primarily in-person instruction, with safety plans in place.  Some courses will still be offered through remote methods, and if so, this will be clearly identified in the schedule of classes.  You will also know at enrollment whether remote course components will be “live” (synchronous) or at your own pace (asynchronous).

Enrolling in a course acknowledges that you are able to attend in whatever format is required.  You should not enroll in a course that is in-person if you are not able to return to campus, and should be aware that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who may need class or exam accommodations, including in the context of remote learning, are advised to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as early as possible in order to prepare for the spring 2022 term.