This morning, we finished learning the notes to our first piece, Genggongan. The explosive final passage features a sudden speed-up that was particularly tricky to get down (Dewa Berata described it as “a little kebyar”). Now, we will continue practicing to get the “feel” of the music, as Dewa put it, not just the notes.
During lunch, Garred Kam spoke to us about Siwa Ratri, the festival which is tomorrow night. Siwa Ratri is dedicated to the God Siwa (Shiva). It is especially dedicated to the destructive aspect of Shiva, and to dark forces in general, in line with the broader Balinese belief in respecting the necessary balance between malevolence and benevolence, dark and light. The date is significant: Jan 9 is the first new moon following the winter solstice, the darkest night of the year, when dark forces and spirits are most present. It’s a night for prayer, making offerings, and meditating or reflecting through the night. Garred said that some people even perform black magic rituals.
Garred and Dewa Berata also spoke about Wayang (shadow puppetry), in preparation for our visit to the Dalang this afternoon and the show that will be held in our village tomorrow night. Dewa related his own experiences with Wayang, especially as a child who was enchanted by the stories and wonderful images.
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