ALASH - Tuvan Throat Singing June 25, 2007

ALASH brings their exotic music from the far reaches of Central Asia to Cambridge, offering an experience rarely heard in this part of the world. The musicians are award-winning throat singers from Tuva, a republic of the Russian Federation tucked between Siberia and Mongolia. In throat singing, one singer produces two or more distinct pitches simultaneously. Audiences never fail to be mesmerized by their vocal feats and the sheer beauty of their music.

Master throat singer Kongar-ool Ondar, who was featured in the movie Genghis Blues, taught two members of Alash since they were children. He now serves as artistic director of the ensemble. All Alash members were trained in traditional Tuvan throat singing and instruments since childhood, but as part of the first generation to reach university age after the fall of the Soviet Union, they were also free to study, enjoy, and experiment with western music. While remaining faithful to their ancestral musical heritage, their “new old” Tuvan music sometimes incorporates complex western harmonies into traditional songs.

Alash first toured the U.S. in 2006 through the Open World Leader program of the Library of Congress and the National Endowment for the Arts. Now on their second U.S. tour, they have played for enthusiastic crowds in the Northeast, Midwest, and Southwest. Wisconsin native Sean Quirk provides entertaining and informative commentary, bridging the musical and cultural gap for the American audience. Quirk studied music in Tuva on a Fulbright Fellowship and now makes Tuva his home.

Hearing the uncanny sounds of Tuvan throat singing in live performance is an opportunity not to be missed. Fine for all ages. Donation appreciated, no tickets necessary.

Official Website: http://www.alashensemble.com