Shpil offers an expansive history of klezmer, from its medieval origins through the present era. Individual chapters concentrate on the most common instruments found in a typical klezmer ensemble: violin, clarinet, accordion, bass, percussion, and even voice. Contributors include a cast of musicians who have recorded, performed, and studied klezmer for years. Each chapter concludes with a selection of three songs that illustrate and exemplify the history and techniques already described. Shpil includes a "klezmer glossary" of mostly musical terms and a discography of both classic and new klezmer and Yiddish recordings, all designed to guide readers in the appreciation of this remarkable musical genre and the art of playing and singing klezmer tunes.