About Us

Based in Denver, Colorado, USA, Gamelan Tunas Mekar is a community under the direction of Balinese composer and Artist-in-Residence I Made Lasmawan. Tunas Mekar performs traditional and new music of the island of Bali, Indonesia. Modeled after typical village groups found throughout Bali, and learning by traditional methods, Tunas Mekar provides American audiences the rare opportunity to experience one of the world's most beautiful and sophisticated performing arts.

Founded in 1988, Gamelan Tunas Mekar plays the vibrant music that traditionally accompanies temple festivals and traditional life-cycle rites, including tooth filings and cremations, as well as more recreational events.

Tunas Mekar performs this rich music throughout the United States in schools, at community cultural festivals, private events and specially-produced concerts, pursuing the goals of musical perfection and human cooperation, and raising awareness of a moving and magnificent culture.