Remembering Two Great Master Teachers (12-end) § life art BALI, f studio

essay Mengenang SANG GURU 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

The last program of whole event was the performance of the Legong Mintaraga dance, choreographed by Ayu Bulantrisna Djelantik and Ni Made Suartini.

The story of this Legong is based on Arjuna Wiwaha, written by Empu Kanwa in the 13th century. In the shadow puppet story (pewayangan), while meditating, Arjuna, also called Begawan Mintaraga, steadfastly faces a trial, angels led by Supraba Goddess who descend from heaven and try to seduce him. But he does not emerge from his meditation and is only aroused by the attack of a giant boar to face the ordeal sent by the Gods to test the warrior. Because of the strength and courage, he displayed in these two trials he was given the Pasopati, the weapon that would protect Arjuna and his brothers, the Pandavas, later on.

This work shows the need for courage to overcome worldly lusts and to be a good leader.

The gamelan arrangement of the opening scene before was adapted from “Nocturne” by Colin McPhee, a western musician who lived in Bali and wrote a book about his experiences called A House in Bali.

Genta Bhuana Sari & Bengkel Ayu Bulan (Bandung) – Legong Mintaraga

The Legong Mintaraga was the last dance performed on that evening. All the audiences were really enthusiastic and showed much appreciation.

What an experience for me, as one the musicians from the younger generation who had the opportunity to play gamelan accompanying these great dancers. My hope, and perhaps the hope of most of my fellow young musicians, is that all generations will keep alive the authentic Peliatan style, as A Tribute to Anak Agung Gde Mandera and Gusti Made Sengog, our greatest Gurus!