Friday, January 20, 2006


Magical sounds from Bellows Falls, from Huun Huur Tu

Brian and I attended a concert of the Tuvan Throat Singers, Huun Huur Tu. They hail from the tiny country of, you guessed it, TUVA. Do you know where that is??? Tuva is nestled between Mongolia and Siberia, a very small, out of the way place.

The Tuvan life style appears to have long avoided interaction with the modern world until being invited to the US for tour, one of which happened to come to the Little town of Bellows Falls in the "Republic of Vermont" via the efforts of local arts advocate, Mary Hepburn. Thank you, Mary!

Who's in the picture?? Name them and win a prize!!!

If you've never heard their music you are in for a wonderful experience. The special way in which they produce the sounds and melodies with their throats is quite unique. Learned from childhood, passed on from older generations, they carry on an ancient musical tradition.

The singers can hold two to three notes simultaneously to create a wistful and moving sound. They express the sounds of birds, horses, tigers, wind and other forces of nature and the lives of their people.

In addition to their wondrful vocal skills, the Huun Huur Tu, are accomplished musicians, playing a variety of ethnic wind, string and percussion instruments accompanying their interpretations of traditional Tuvan folk music.

Their songs tell stories of life in the beautiful unspoiled natural surroundings of their country. Their music transports one to a time of simpler and purer beauty.

We hope that we can send you the audio portion of this story soon.

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