in 1989, a group of outstanding artists took the name of the famous folk song "Tumen Ekh" and joined together to form this ensemble. it gives its performances in the premises like the ger palace of ancient mongolian khaans, without any microphone or technical support. they perform long and short folk songs, traditional muscial instruments, khuumii (throat) singing (sometimes also spelt as khöömi), well-wishing and eulogies, as well as folk dances, shaman dance, contortion (snake girls) and religious mask dance.
although you'll hardly see any locals among the audience, it is worth it to see their performance. the khuumii (or khöömi) singing is likely to remain the most memorable part of the evening. it is one of the most enigmatic arts of the country. the style of singing produces a whole harmonic range from deep in the larynx, throat, stomach and palate. its remarkable effect is that it produces two notes and melodies simultaneously: one a low growl, the other an ethereal whistling. in other words, if you would hear it without knowing what it is, you might end up thinking that it is an animal singing, and not a human being. very impressive, but also somewhat eerie. it is originally from western mongolia, namely from Khovd aimag (province) and its Tuva population, and requires an excellent physical condition. its performance is reserved for men only.
the stage.
performing religiuos rituals.
national and folk music and dances.
contorsionists.
the whole Tumen Ekh ensemble.
a mega Morin Khuur (horse-head fiddle) at the entrance. the morin khuur is probably the most typical musical instrument for mongolia. it has two horse-hair strings, with the distinctive and decorative carving of a horse’s head on the handle.
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