Resonate Community Gamelan Project

Resonate is a community music project using Indonesian gamelan instruments, based at Highfield Trinity Church. Sessions are free to participate - though donations are welcome. No musical experience is needed.

Sessions run Wednesdays from 10:30AM-12:30PM in the lower ground floor hall of Highfield Trinity church - please access via the back door on Holland Place.

The autumn term runs from September 11th to December 4th, with a half term break on (no session 30th October).

What is 'gamelan'?

The gamelan is a family of instruments such as gongs, chimes, drums, and xylophones, and is the traditional music of Indonesia. Anyone can take part – no musical experience is necessary. The project is about working together and learning to play percussion instruments. You can listen to some of the music we've created before on our soundcloud and watch our River of Sound performance in 2023 here.

Why gamelan?

Gamelan playing is very communal and inclusive. It’s easy to pick up and make beautiful music quickly - you can't really make a mistake! Participants have told us it helps them relax, gain confidence, make new friends, and feel more positive. Anyone is welcome to join, and we particularly welcome people in challenging circumstances of some kind, for example those with mental health needs or disabilities. Please get in touch if you'd like to discuss what adaptations might be possible for you or someone you support, and whether we can meet any specific needs.

What happens in the sessions?

Participants will work in a group setting to enjoy playing the gamelan instruments. This might involve composing, improvising, or learning traditional Indonesian pieces. A typical session involves playing the gamelan together, talking about how we're getting on, and tea and biscuits! We make recordings of some of the music, and we might also work towards a public sharing / performance if it feels right for the group.

What people say...

“I really enjoyed taking part, it gives a sense of freedom. I feel happier and more positive about myself."
“I makes me very happy to know that I am part of something special, it is the highlight of my week”

"It's the first time I've played a musical instrument and not felt like I was doing it wrong"

Who we are...

Good Vibrations is a national charity supporting people in challenging circumstances through communal music-making. We work with some of the most marginalised people in the UK, in prisons, secure hospitals and in the community, supporting them to grow in confidence, deepen their communication and social skills, and develop more positive self-identities. Find out more about our work at www.good-vibrations.org.uk

This project is supported by the National Lottery's Awards for All fund.

Please call or text Sam on 07400749898 or email sam@good-vibrations.org.uk if you have any further questions.