With extensive photographs and downloadable audio this guide to Balinese music showcases the history; culture and art of the gamelan ceremony. Bali has develop and nourished an astonishing variety of musical ensemblesmdash;called gamelanmdash;comprising dozens of instruments mainly made of bronze or bamboo; and organized into groups with as many as 30 to 40 players. In Balinese Gamelan Music; Michael Tenzer; a noted Professor of Music at the University of British Columbia; Vancouver; presents an introduction to many types of Balinese gamelan ensembles; each with its own established tradition; repertoire and context. The instruments and basic principles underlying the music are introduced; providing listeners with the means to better appreciate the musicmdash;and its importance not only in Bali but around the world.The gamelan music of Bali is a centuries-old kaleidoscope of sound and rhythm that is recognized today as one of the worlds most sophisticated musical traditions. Despite rapid changes in contemporary village life; hundreds of groups still perform regularly around this tiny islandmdash;from isolated mountain hamlets to the bustling precincts of Denpasar; Kuta and Ubud. The primary function of gamelan music in Bali is to accompany religious rituals. Each village typically maintains several different gamelan sets; using each one for a different set of occasions. Music is memorized; and rehearsed in village meeting halls; temples; or private homes. When a gamelan group accompanies a Balinese dance performance; the close coordination between the dancers movements and the music is established through a complex system of interactive cues and responses. Performance standards are extremely high and even with Balis rapid modernization in recent years; the gamelan tradition remains vital and largely undiminished by outside musical influences.
#1798461 in eBooks 2013-10-01 2013-10-01File Name: B00G6QYQ5W
Review
9 of 9 people found the following review helpful. A well written; expertly investigated story regarding the mystery of "Ode to Billie Joe" and Bobbie Gentry.By Cooke HarveyHaving read several of Tara Murthas journalistic articles I was as anxious to read this new medium of hers as I was to learn about the subject. We all remember the song; the mystery; maybe even the film but I never realized how much a mystery Bobbie Gentry was herself. That is not to say she had an illusive career; on the contrary we learn how she vaulted from singer songwriter having a hit and album that dislodged Sgt Pepper in the summer of 67 to multiple albums; Vegas shows of the highest caliber; her own contracts;production and company unheard of at that time in showbiz for a woman. But then save a few interviews and award shows she literally drops the radar.Ms. Murtha does fantastic journalistic detective work on this subject while she teaches us about the impact of this song "Ode to Billie Joe". She introduces us to Gentrys friends; family; slimeballs and entertainment sharks along the way trying to piece together the urban legends regarding the writing; playing; production and breadth of this song/woman. I always liked the song and its mystery; it made the public guess what the real reason and outcome was but we are reminded that is not the point - the point was Southern relationships and handling matters of such question.Tara Murthas writing style is spot on; keen; cleverand entertaining.She knows about writing and she knows her music. This is a must read for folks who like a good mystery; like a good music story; like an uplifting story on womans rights and gains or those who just like the song "Ode to Billie Joe". Definitely get this book!2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Damn it Bobbie!By AngelinaPangelinaWell; I dont think Ive been this disappointed in a long while. Not in the book; no; Im disappointed that there are so many questions left unanswered. Im disappointed in the inability to see the shows of days gone by. Im disappointed that Bobbies out there somewhere holding on tightly to all her secrets; and will quite possibly take them to the grave.On the other hand; this was well written piece. A worth while read to anyone interested in bad ass women ahead of their time.3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. Answers to questions I didnt know I hadBy PeteyBabyTara Murthas account of Bobbie Gentrys life and career shone a spotlight on a ghost; a hauntingly beautiful and talented woman who is best remembered for that one song. But she was so much more than a pretty face and voice. Successful in business as well as the performing arts; she burned as bright as a 4th of July fireworks display. Then just as quickly; she was gone. Ms. Murthas book is definitely worth making a small investment of your time and money for a glimpse into the enigmatic life of a fascinating person.