Localisation and glocalisation of the 24 Festive Drums through perspectives of performativity in music

The 24 Festive Drums, a music performance originating from Malaysia, skilfully blends traditional Chinese cultural elements such as jieling, shigu, and calligraphy with drumming that incorporates the ancient 24 solar terms. This unique style has rapidly gained popularity and is now recognised as part of Malaysia’s national intangible cultural heritage. While the genre has attracted international attention, academic discussions have yet to deeply explore its glocal-local performance dimensions. Many studies have focused on its role in team-building and cultural dissemination, but there is a notable gap in research concerning its performativity in music. Additionally, debates within Malaysia regarding the drums’ localisation and claims of cultural ownership between Malaysia and China mirror broader identity transformations from Chinese to Malaysian. However, these discussions often fail to address how such identities are shaped by glocal influences. This study examines the performativity of the 24 Festive Drums, exploring both musical and non-musical elements to understand how globalisation and localisation influence this genre. It also considers the interpretation of glocalisation through these performances. Adopting an ethnographic approach, this ethnomusicological research includes fieldwork in Malaysia and China. Data are analysed through content analysis and micro-analysis to discern the interplay of local and glocal influences on this musical tradition. The results show that the 24 Festive Drums bear the characteristic of Chinessness, reflected not only in its cultural background and performance style but also in the values and moral concepts inherited. Based on the discussion of glocalisation and localisation, it is found that this music performance is influenced differently in various social contexts, and practitioners need to adjust according to the local environment. Particularly in Malaysia, the identity of the drums is not singular but evolves with the social environment. Against the backdrop of glocalisation discussions, this research underscores the importance of approaching the glocalisation of the drums with a mindset that moves beyond a Sinocentric view. This perspective broadens the comprehension of Chinese culture to include glocal Chinese communities, showcasing the vibrant interaction between worldwide influences and local particularities. In summary, the 24 Festive Drums illustrates how Chinese culture retains Chineseness while adapting and integrating within a glocal context.

Text 122805.pdf Download (1MB) Official URL or Download Paper: https://ethesis.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/18674

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