Link 1. Repeated rhythmic Patterns
In Gamelan Music, Musicians play simultaneous variations of a melodic line, creating a shimmering, pulsating sound. The musical forms in gamelan involve the repetition of melodies and rhythms. In Jazz music, there are repeated rhythms by improvisation. Both styles employ polyrhythms, which is why they have such a strong link.
Link 2. Melody
The melody in Indonesian Gamelan music and Jazz music is very disjunct, with a small range. The melody is basically repetitive in Gamelan music, where it is passed from one percussive instrument to the next. In Jazz music, the melody is also repetitive and passed from one leading instrument to another.
