Alash are masters of Tuvan throat singing, or xöömei, a vocal tradition in which a singer can produce multiple pitches at the same time. Trained in Tuvan music since childhood, the members of Alash bring deep knowledge of traditional instruments, song forms, and vocal techniques to performances that are both rooted and contemporary.
What sets Alash apart is their careful integration of modern influences into traditional Tuvan music. Their songs may include complex harmonies, Western instruments, or contemporary forms, but the sound and spirit remain distinctly Tuvan. The ensemble has won major international throat-singing competitions and has toured widely in the United States, where The Washington Post called their music “utterly stunning."
Alash has collaborated with artists across genres, from the Sun Ra Arkestra to Béla Fleck & the Flecktones, appearing on the Grammy-winning album Jingle All the Way. Beyond the stage, the ensemble is committed to teaching and cultural exchange, introducing audiences and students of all ages to the music, instruments, and traditions of Tuva.
About the Artists
Bady-Dorzhu Ondar performs vocals, igil, guitar, and bayan. A graduate of Kyzyl Arts College and the East Siberia State Academy of Culture and Art, he has received major honors in traditional ensemble and xöömei competitions and was named People’s Xöömeizhi of Tuva in 2007.
Ayan-ool Sam performs vocals, doshpuluur, igil, and xomus. He studied at the Republic School of the Arts, Kyzyl Arts College, and Moscow State Pedagogical University. He won first prize at the 2008 International Xöömei Symposium and was named People’s Xöömeizhi of Tuva in 2015.
Ayan Shirizhik performs vocals, kengirge, shyngyrash, shoor, and xomus. A graduate of Kyzyl Arts College and the East Siberia State Academy of Culture and Art, he was named a Distinguished Artist of Tuva in 2009 and People’s Xöömeizhi of Tuva in 2021.
Presented by the Skidmore College Department of Music.