Born on the Brink of a Storm, Enduring for Tradition: The Saga of Sanggar Seni Pranawa Swaram

Sanggar Seni Pranawa Swaram, Dalung Village (Source: Personal Collection)

Amidst the increasingly rapid current of modernization, the existence of a sanctuary for cultural preservation has become a much-needed oasis. In Dalung Village, Badung Regency, this vital role is undertaken by Sanggar Seni Pranawa Swaram. Standing tall with a vision to preserve the art of tabuh (traditional percussion), this studio has become a home for the younger generation to know and love their ancestral heritage.

The story of Sanggar Seni Pranawa Swaram began in 2020, right before the Covid-19 pandemic struck. Founded by I Gede Eka Adi Saputra, the studio did not immediately appear in a grand form. Its embryo started from the ownership of a personal set of Selonding gamelan. From there, I Gede Eka Adi Saputra formed a small percussion group. It was this love and dedication to the Selonding gamelan that became the initial foundation for the formation of a solid art community.

The Semar Pegulingan Gamelan collection of Sanggar Seni Pranawa Swaram (Source: Personal Collection)

The year 2023 became a crucial momentum for the development of Pranawa Swaram. The studio received attention and support from the government in the form of a complete set of Semar Pegulingan Gamelan. This assistance acted as a catalyst that transformed the small percussion group into an art studio officially opened to the public.

With increasingly adequate facilities, Sanggar Seni Pranawa Swaram opened its doors wide to the general public, especially the youth in the Dalung Village area. The requirement to join was made inclusive, namely a minimum of 3rd-grade elementary school students. This step was taken for a reason; the goal is to instill a love for traditional arts from an early age.

The Semar Pegulingan Gamelan collection of Sanggar Seni Pranawa Swaram (Source: Personal Collection)

The primary reason behind the existence of this studio is truly noble: to ensure that the art of tabuh does not go extinct. The founder realizes that the need for gamelan players will always exist, considering the many religious ceremonies (Yadnya) and customary activities in Bali that absolutely require gamelan accompaniment. By producing a regeneration of skilled players, Pranawa Swaram guarantees the continuity of rituals and culture in the future.

Sanggar Seni Pranawa Swaram's performance at the 2025 Bali Arts Festival (Source: Personal Collection)

The fruits of this hard work and disciplined training have begun to clearly show. In July 2025, Sanggar Seni Pranawa Swaram achieved a proud milestone by being selected to represent Badung Regency to perform at the prestigious Bali Arts Festival (Pesta Kesenian Bali or PKB). This performance serves as proof of the quality of coaching conducted by the studio.

Now, Sanggar Seni Pranawa Swaram does not limit itself only to Selonding and Semar Pegulingan gamelan. To enrich the skills of its members, the studio also opens private classes for specific instruments such as Mekendang (drumming) and Gender. Through a structured yet familial learning method, Sanggar Seni Pranawa Swaram continues to move forward, keeping the flame of traditional art burning bright in the hearts of the next generation.