The Dhol Foundation: Enriching your Music

Our planet is defined by one universal language, never failing to unite us all, music. 

 Whether it’s the electric pulse of punk rock or the rural heartbeat of bluegrass country, music can be heard from every corner of the globe. 

 But over time it can get slightly draining listening to the same genres over and over.  

Maybe your favourite band or artist just doesn't hit like they used to. 

 Well, look no further than The Dhol Foundation.  

 

This riveting, multi-membered foundation of compellingly skilled musicians accompanies classic Indian sounds with that of the intense rhythms of world music.  

Audience member from The Dhol Foundation’s 1st May 2024 performance at O2 Academy Leeds stated: “I’m grateful for my chance to see The Dhol Foundation, I learned a lot about music from other cultures”. 

Their sound is unmistakably original, as the group tours internationally performing weddings, concerts and more!  
Renowned leader of The Dhol Foundation, Johnny Kalsi, formed the band following his previous involvement in the acclaimed Bhangra band Alaap.  

After various enthusiasts inquired to Kalsi to teach them this one-off, magical style of music, The Dhol Foundation was formed. 

 It is today known as one of the largest Dhol institutes throughout England.  

So that leads us onto the gripping question. Why change old habits, why immerse yourself in new sounds, why The Dhol Foundation? 

 

There is something incredibly special about risk-taking in the music industry.  

Breaking stereotypical barriers, enhancing current instruments and pushing your original sound are all key steps to becoming as unique as The Dhol Foundation.  

The ‘Dhol’ itself is a North Indian drum made from a wood barrel equipped with synthetics or animal hide stretched across the open ends.  

The clever mechanism here features nuts and bolts or interwoven ropes, which can loosen or stretch the hide at any given moment.  

The Dhol Foundation’s appraisal of the Dhol is particularly noteworthy, as some could admit, before being introduced to the foundation, they may have never even heard of it!  

Without a doubt, they have entirely dominated classic Indian and world genres, offering their experiences and talent through the assertive beat of the Dhol. 

 

So, what does this mean for aspiring artists? 

 Maybe you, the reader, have been thinking about picking up a guitar, a ukulele, a glockenspiel.  

The opportunities are endless.  

The Dhol Foundation promotes learning through a diverse range of students, offering online classes, group sessions and even getting the concertgoers involved during shows.  

They prioritise making the entire audience feel welcome and a part of the foundation, just through being able to wave your arms or clap your hands.  

The Dhol Foundation leaves no one behind.