Bali has developed and nourished an astonishing variety of gamelan ensembles ? a kaleidoscope of sound and rhythm that is recognized today as one of the world?s most sophisticated musical traditions. Despite changes effected by a contemporary life, hundreds of village groups still perform regularly all around the tiny island ? from isolated mountain hamlets to the crowded neighborhoods of Denpasar. This authoritative book, newly revised and updated, presents an introduction to more than a dozen different types of Balinese gamelan, each with its own established tradition, repertoire and social or religious context. The instruments and basic principles underlying the gamelan are introduced, thus providing listeners with the means to better appreciate the music. Scores of beautiful color photographs, a sonography, and a brief guide to studying and hearing music in Bali, will prove indispensable to visitors and gamela afficiondos around the world. pp. 143