Tari Wira Yud(h)a

This stay-at-home thing is intense isn't it? Everyone practising alone, planning for the future when we get back together. (My attempted segue to this cute clip of a lone dancer...)

'Tari' means dance. 'Wira Yudha' translates to something like brave or young warriors, depending who you ask and how you pose the question. The (h) is an optional spelling, so when you're searching for more youtube clips or info it could be spelled Wirayuda, Wirayudha, Wira Yuda, or Wira Yudha. As you can see from one of the clips below it's could mean brave young dancers - some of those little guys are tiny! Notice how the more experienced performers are at the back so the younger learners can't simply copy, they need to develop confidence and memorise the sequences.
Also note, on the left of the screen there are musicians NOT playing their instruments, but just visible on our right can be seen the front row of the accompanists. Yep, there are two complete gamelan groups on the one stage, leaving the centre clear for PENARI (dancers). This is a common concert (and contest!) set-up in Bali, each group performs one piece then takes a break.

THIS youtube video (link) is pretty fuzzy but it's the very popular, widely owned (on VCD) 'standard' version that most Balinese households know. Interesting to use the term 'standard', since that's not really a desirable attitude to musical arrangement in Bali. Each region, village, and SEKAA (local club) used to have their own gamelan tunings and styles, and certainly their version of a classic tune would be full of unique elements (without losing the recognisable themes). It is observable how motorised transport, Conservatorium study, radio, TV, VCD, and now internet have influenced the DESA LAIN (different village) approach to variation (or lack of) in regional interpretations. Thankfully we're through the homoginsation period and groups are now once again taking pride in their own local sounds and styles.

Ok, here's the lesson. Definitely a good new addition for the **KIDS** repertoire, even if you want to skip the introduction sequence. Enjoy!