Dhol Foundation

Dhol Foundation

Dhol Foundation is a London-based dhol drum institute and musical group associated with bhangra and desi music. It is founded in 1989 by Johnny Kalsi, a former member of Alaap, after several musicians ask him to teach them. The group remains active and is centred on Kalsi as its sole listed member.

Background

The project develops around the dhol, a traditional percussion instrument from Punjab in northern India, which reflects Kalsi’s own origins. Alongside the school, it operates as a performance group playing bhangra music.

Style and releases

In London, Kalsi combines the traditional banghra style with dance beats and electronic music. A first album appears in 2001, credited to Kalsi and his students.