The New Philadelphia Classical Symphony

Fri., April 20, 8 p.m., Trinity Center, 22nd and Spruce streets

by Peter Burwasser

classical

Gamelan is the most influential music you've never heard of. This centuries-old music from Bali and Java finds its way into French Impressionism, American minamalism, pop material, movie scores and even cartoons. What is it? Not a single instrument, but an entire orchestra of pitched percussion — mainly metallic, and usually bronze or iron. There can also be stringed instruments, wooden flutes and voice. The melodic language ranges from tiny microtones to broad whole-tone steps, and is invariably joyous and reflective at once. The American downtown scene has been especially enamored of the gamelan, beginning with the trailblazing work of the late, great Lou Harrison. His spiritual heir is Evan Ziporyn, who will be The New Philadelphia Classical Symphony's guest this weekend, bringing along his very own gamelan ensemble, Gamelan Galak Tika, for a world premiere of his Concerto for Gamelan and Strings. Ziporyn's program includes pieces by the aforementioned Harrison and his colleague Steve Reich, as well as a gamelan-infused delight from the French master Ravel.

Fri., April 20, 8 p.m., $15-$35, Trinity Center, 22nd and Spruce streets, 610-664-8481, www.philly.cmagic.com.