Semara Dana

Semara dana is a cross-fertilisation of the popular 5-tone gong kebyar style with the modal possibilities of the older, rarer 7-tone semar pegulingan. This ensemble first appeared in 1985, and was created by famed composer I Wayan Beratha, who combined the instruments of gong kebar and semar pegulingan. This means an enormous range of music can be played, from classical to modern. It also opens up tremendous possibilities for new composition and experimentation - super-kebyar!

The only Semara dana set in London is resident at LSO St Luke's and belongs to the LSO Discovery education programme. It was made in 2003 by I Made Gabeleran of Blahbatuh, Bali. Elaborately carved and painted, with floral patterns, guardian demons and scenes from the Ramayana, this set is named Semara Wertih or 'pure, sincere desire'.

You can learn how to play gamelan with this set at weekly sessions of LSO St Luke's Community Gamelan Group. The group meets on Monday evenings during school term time. Your first session is free; after that each session costs £5 (£3 concessions). For more information, please visit LSO site.


Lila Cita plays John Adams's 'Short Ride in a Fast Machine' - not a typical music to play on any gamelan but a good example of the versatility of Semara Dana.

Gong Kebyar | Semar Pagulingan | Angklung

Gender Wayang | Salunding | Baleganjur