Martin F. Hatch Jr. Obituary
Martin F. Hatch Jr., a pioneering ethnomusicologist and beloved mentor, passed away on August 23, 2025. As a professor of music at Cornell University, he devoted his career to the study and teaching of Indonesian music, particularly the gamelan traditions of Java and Bali. His work was instrumental in introducing generations of students and scholars in the United States to the richness of Indonesian musical heritage. Through his scholarship, teaching, and leadership in performance ensembles, he helped establish gamelan as a vibrant and enduring presence on university campuses across the country.
Professor Hatch’s legacy in the field of Indonesian studies is profound. He not only advanced the academic study of gamelan music but also nurtured deep cultural exchange and understanding between Indonesia and the United States. In 2012, he played a key role in establishing the American Institute for Indonesian Studies (AIFIS), which continues to support scholars and foster connections between the two nations. His dedication inspired countless students to pursue research in Indonesian arts and culture, many of whom have carried forward his vision of bridging communities through music. His contributions will continue to resonate in classrooms, concert halls, and among the scholarly community for generations to come.