Student ensembles will share the stage to feature the music of Java\, Thailand and Bali. \nThe Music of Java Ensemble\, directed by Joko Sutrisno\, centers on the music of Central Javanese gamelan\, a percussion-dominated musical ensemble featuring tuned bronze gongs\, bronze metallophones\, and drums\, along with flutes\, zither\, vocals\, and spiked fiddle. The ensemble is known for rhythmic complexity and a unique feel as well as a lush and dynamic melodic range. \nJoin the Music of Thailand Ensemble\, directed by Supeena Adler\, for a captivating celebration of Thai music and dance as UCLA students and community members unite for a stunning performance in UCLA’s Schoenberg Hall. On the evening of May 30\, this special half-hour concert promises to be an unforgettable experience\, showcasing Thailand’s rich cultural heritage in a way accessible to everyone. \nThe concert features two musical traditions from distinct regions of Thailand\, Central and Northeast. It opens with the acclaimed piece Rabam Boranakadi (the Series of Archaeological Dances)\, a masterpiece created in 1967 by renowned dancers and musicians. Through five sections\, each representing kingdoms from Thailand’s history — Dvaravati\, Srivijaya\, Lopburi\, Chiang Saen\, and Sukhothai — this performance vividly illustrates Thailand’s historical journey. Each segment transforms the beauty of paintings and sculptures from architectural relics into dynamic dance movements\, with costumes and choreography that reflect the unique essence of each era. \nFollowing this\, we immerse in the uplifting Poonglaang music from Northeastern Thailand. Experience the instrumental delight of Toei Saam Lai (Three Musical Styles) and the vibrant Phuthai Saamphao (Three Phuthai Tribes). The colorful costumes of nine talented master dancers from the Los Angeles area embody the region’s diverse tribes. A wide variety of musical instruments will enhance the performance\, ensuring a vividly memorable cultural experience for all. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness the traditional beauty and spirit of Thailand! \nThe Music of Bali Ensemble\, directed by I. Nyoman Wenten\, features gamelan (the generic Indonesian word for orchestra) music and dance. The Balinese gamelan gong kebyar is famous for its fast tempos\, abrupt changes of texture\, and brilliantly costumed dancers who act out stories from the Ramayana. \nMusic of Java Program\nThe 66th Annual Spring Festival of World Music\nContinuing a tradition begun in 1960\, the Department of Ethnomusicology draws on its incredible collection of world musical instruments to present its annual Spring Festival of World Music. It’s an opportunity for student ensembles to perform and share traditional musics from around the world as they master their instruments. The 2026 festival concert dates run from April 26th to June 3rd. The festival is free and open to the public. All concerts are in Schoenberg Hall and Lani Hall. We look forward to welcoming you to The UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music for our storied Spring Festival of World Music. Click Here to Learn More about the Festival