Auspicious Music in a Changing Society (SOAS Musicology Series)

This is a study of the Damai, the most important caste of musicians in Hindu Nepal. The Damai are a community of musician-tailors who, with shawms, trumpets, drums and cymbals, form instrumental ensembles. The book examines techniques of making and playing the instruments, the status of the Damai, their repertoire, the alterations brought about by modern technology, and their future prospects with the development of urban life.