Pathet

Pathet is a modal concept in Javanese and Balinese gamelan music that describes a framework for scales, melodic behavior, and customary cadences within a performance. It functions as a set of rules that governs which notes may be emphasized, how melodies are developed, and what musical endings or phrase shapes are considered appropriate for a given piece. Pathet is often described in relation to mood or character, helping performers convey a particular emotional or narrative quality in the music.

In Central Javanese gamelan, three main pathet are typically recognized: nem, sanga, and manyura. Each pathet has a characteristic tonal center and preferred cadential formulas, and each can be realized within different tunings used by the ensemble (such as pelog and slendro). The pathet system guides improvisation and phrase construction in melodic cycles and interacts with the gong-based structure that marks sections of a gendhing or ketawang.

Balinese gamelan also uses modal concepts akin to pathet, though regional practices and terminology differ from the Javanese system. Across both traditions, pathet functions as a key organizing principle that informs mood, musical pacing, and the progression of phrases throughout a performance. While not equivalent to Western modes, pathet serves a similar role in shaping tonal expectation and expressive intention within the instrument ensembles.

See also: Gamelan, Pathet Nem, Pathet Sanga, Pathet Manyura.