The Gamelan Festival was held on July 20-21, 2024, as part of the 57th anniversary celebrations of the Faculty of Philosophy at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM). The festival featured 47 gamelan groups from various UGM units and community groups across the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY). Alongside the festival, a batik exhibition and a traditional snacks market were organized, involving twenty micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (UMKM).
“In this festival, we are not only celebrating the long journey of the Faculty of Philosophy, which is turning 57 years old this year. This event serves as a convergence point for all community elements, not only UGM but also the surrounding environment,” said Dr. Rr. Siti Murtiningsih, S.S., M.Hum., Dean of the Faculty of Philosophy, during the festival’s opening ceremony on Saturday (July 20).
Murti explained that the art of gamelan, with its beauty and uniqueness, teaches humanity about harmony, patience, and perseverance. Therefore, the Gamelan Festival is not just a platform to enjoy and preserve traditional music but also an opportunity to reflect on the philosophical values embedded in every note and rhythm.
In her speech, she expressed appreciation for all the participants who enthusiastically joined the festival and for various parties that have continually supported the festival’s sustainability.
“It is truly amazing to see the desire to connect with each other through the art and culture of gamelan. Let us enjoy every melody performed with gratitude and pride. I hope the Gamelan Festival will inspire us all and always enrich our perspectives,” she said.
Dr. Sartini, M.Hum., the Chair of the Festival’s Organizing Committee, shared that this was the sixth Gamelan Festival since it was first initiated in 2017. After a hiatus in 2020 and 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the festival resumed in 2022 with 24 participating groups, and this year, the number grew to 47 registered participants.
“This event started from the enthusiasm of people who love gamelan. In the UGM environment, many people practiced gamelan but lacked a platform for performance,” she explained.
Originally launched by the gamelan community at UGM, the festival has now attracted interest from groups outside the university. This year’s participating gamelan groups came from institutions such as Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta, the DIY Regional Secretariat, the DIY High Prosecutor’s Office, and various other community groups. “At UGM, participants include students, lecturers, education staff, alumni, and Dharma Wanita,” she continued.
Sartini hopes that the festival will continue to be held in the coming years, as gamelan is often recognized for its valuable cultural and character-building aspects. “It is also a source of joy, as can be seen from the enthusiasm of the participants, from the rehearsal yesterday to their performances today. I hope next year we can reach an even broader audience, especially among the younger generation,” said Sartini.