Virtual Gamelan Mobile Application

The Virtual Gamelan is a mobile application that simulates gamelan instruments, built for mobile devices using the Android operating system. The Virtual Gamelan attempts to recreate the “bonang” and the “saron”, which are instruments part of a normal gamelan ensemble, into digital form, suited for mobile use. The gamelan is a traditional musical ensemble originating from Java and Bali in Indonesia. It is an ancient art form which dates back to the 8th century. The gamelan is known for its rich and blended sound signatures, and melodies that aspire tranquility and meditation. The art has garnered interests in all parts of the world, and also has a presence in Malaysia, having its own version called the Malay gamelan. The gamelan has been a part of a long historic culture, especially in Indonesia and Malaysia, as it has been always used in royal ceremonies, as well as formal events and occasions today. However, the popularity of the traditional art form is in decline, as new modern music genres appeals more to today‟s generation. Making use of mobile technology, the Virtual Gamelan Mobile Application aims to revive the traditional gem to today‟s modern world, in hope of exposing the gamelan more to the public.