Colorado Professor I Made Lasmawan Spreads Indonesian Gamelan Culture Across the U.S.

For more than 30 years, Colorado College Professor I Made Lasmawan has been sharing the traditional Indonesian art of gamelan across U.S. college campuses. Born and raised in Bali, he now aims to spread Indonesian culture throughout the Rocky Mountain region.

Gamelan, a traditional Indonesian orchestra, features a variety of instruments like gongs, xylophones, and flutes, creating a distinctive sound that captures Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage. Derived from the Javanese word gamel, meaning “to strike,” gamelan reflects the country’s diverse legacy, with Javanese and Balinese styles being the most popular. Balinese gamelan is known for its energetic rhythms, while Javanese gamelan has a more calming and meditative approach.

Lasmawan, known affectionately as Pak Made, began his musical journey by earning a master’s degree and teaching in Java for 12 years before moving to the U.S. in 1990. His first teaching position was at San Diego State University, where he introduced Balinese gamelan and nurtured a growing passion for the art form among students.

Since then, he has established programs at several universities, such as Colorado College, Pomona College, and the University of Colorado, spreading gamelan’s influence well beyond the coastlines. His commitment to Indonesian culture led to the creation of Gamelan Tunas Mekar, a Balinese ensemble in Denver where he serves as director. This diverse group has received accolades, including the Denver Mayor’s Awards for Excellence in Arts & Culture.

Despite his accomplishments, Pak Made remains focused on bringing gamelan to underserved regions, emphasizing the importance of community and culture over individualism. By partnering with academic institutions and Indonesian consulates, he ensures that traditional Indonesian music continues to flourish.

“Gamelan is not just about the music,” Pak Made says. “It is about the culture, the tradition, the way of life, and most importantly, connecting and respecting individuals.”