Jaww: conceptualising Tunisian musical air

Based on musical and sensory ethnography across Tunisia, this article explores the interconnected dimensions of jaww, a complex musico-cultural concept encompassing atmosphere, social environment, climate, and mood. For both performers and listeners, jaww functions as: (1) a connection between the air of different settings across time and space, (2) a conduit for the transmission of privileged musical knowledge, (3) an immersive, multisensory medium infused with sounds, smells, and spirits; and (4) a pervasive intersubjective feeling. While special attention is given to the jaww of ma’lūf (Tunisian-Andalusian music), the atmospheres of other Tunisian musical traditions are also considered. The role of jaww in evoking nostalgia is examined within the broader context of Andalusi musics, and comparisons are drawn with related North African and Middle Eastern concepts such as ṭarab (musical ecstasy) and ḥāl (spiritual or emotional state). Finally, the article considers how region, descent, social class, and national identity shape the musical experience of jaww.