Here’s the link to a very informative article written by Joane Nagel and published in the journal Social Problems about the construction of ethnicity, which regards identity and culture as its two basic building blocks.
Constructing Ethnicity: Creating and Recreating Ethnic Identity and Culture
Some interesting bits and pieces of an interview with Antranig Kzirian, the Oud player, that summarise well what I think about (Armenian) identity and music (which also confirms what my research has demonstrated..)
The Oud
H: Where did you get the inspiration to pursue your field?
A.K.: The Armenian oud tradition of the Eastern United States strongly motivated me to explore and study the oud and the role Armenians played historically in mastering it. Growing up I also incorporated various influences into my understanding of music and performing on the instrument. I believe that traditions must be kept alive but also developed and grown so that they remain a living, breathing part of our perception of art and life.
H: Do you think identity is something that must be preserved or something that can evolve?
A.K.: Both – we must preserve but also help it evolve and survive in its surroundings. Adding our own experiences and seasoning helps to keep identity fresh and current while still maintaining core values that we hold dear as Armenians and people of good conscience.
To read the full interview:
To listen to him playing the Oud:
And finally to read an interesting article written by the Professor Melissa Bilal:
Armenianness in Music 