Music of Java and Armenia

The Music of Java Ensemble and the Armenian Music Ensemble showcase traditional music from these regions on the same stage.

The Music of Java Ensemble centers on the music of Central Javanese gamelan, a percussion-dominated musical ensemble featuring tuned bronze gongs, bronze metallophones, and drums, along with flutes, zither, vocals, and spiked fiddle. The ensemble is known for rhythmic complexity and a unique feel as well as a lush and dynamic melodic range.

The Armenian Music Ensemble provides instruction in the heritage of Armenian folk music. Students learn an array of songs, instruments and dances via methods of oral transmission. We discuss an array of relevant cultural, historic and political issues to enrich student practice of musical forms.

Continuing a tradition begun in 1960, the Department of Ethnomusicology draws on its incredible collection of world musical instruments to present its annual Spring Festival of World Music. It’s an opportunity for student ensembles to perform and share traditional musics from around the world as they master their instruments.

Host or Publisher The UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music