These bamboo flutes are known as suling. They are some of the softer instruments that often accompany the singer in a gamelan performance. A gamelan ensemble comprises mainly gongs, drums, and various wind and string instruments. 'Gamelan’ refers to the action (‘an’) of hammering (‘gamel’) by striking the bronze instruments with beaters. Beliefs in the spiritual power of gamelan produces great respect for the instruments and the music.Today gamelan music remains an important part of court and village life in Java. Many sets are kept as royal heirlooms (pusaka) and are played at important ceremonies.
