Dhol: Drummers, Identities, and Modern Punjab

Gibb Schreffler's research investigates the dhol drum's place among Punjabi communities, analyzing musicians' identities and exploring identity construction at the intersections of ethnicity, class, and nationality. Understanding the identities of dhol players is an ethical necessity that acknowledges their place in Punjabi cultural history and helps repair their representation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 274 pages
Publication date: 28 December 2021
Publisher: University of Illinois Press

The dhol drum, a symbol of global Punjabi culture, has a profound impact on the people who play it, inspiring an unbridled love for the instrument far beyond its traditional role in regional vernacular music. However, the identities of dhol players within their local communities and the broader Punjabi nation remain largely unknown. In his groundbreaking book, Gibb Schreffler delves into the intricate world of dhol s place within Punjabi communities, conducting two decades of extensive research. Through his analysis, Schreffler sheds light on the complex concepts of musical performance and explores how these concepts shape and articulate Punjabi social structure. He also examines the construction of identities at the intersections of ethnicity, class, and nationality in Punjab and the diaspora.

What emerges from Schreffler s study is a profound understanding of the identities of dhol players and their role in Punjabi cultural history. He emphasizes the ethical imperative of recognizing their place and rectifying their misrepresentation. Dhol is an engaging and rich ethnography that offers a deep insight into the musical and social practices of the overlooked dhol players. It sheds light on the cultural significance of the dhol and its role in shaping the identity of Punjabi communities both in India and around the world.

In conclusion, Gibb Schreffler s book Dhol is a groundbreaking exploration of the dhol drum and its place within Punjabi culture. Through his meticulous research and insightful analysis, Schreffler provides a comprehensive understanding of the identities of dhol players and their role in shaping Punjabi society. This book is a valuable contribution to the field of music anthropology and ethnography, and it will be of interest to scholars, musicians, and anyone with an interest in the cultural and social dynamics of Punjabi communities.

Weight: 416g
Dimension: 151 x 327 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780252086120