ALASH - Throat Singers from Tuva January 27, 2008

Banjo Jim's presents an evening of harmonic singing with the champion Tuvan throat singing ensemble Alash, followed by harmonic singer Timothy Hill.

Alash are masters of xoomei, the ancient Tuvan art of singing multiple pitches at the same time. The Washington Post described their music as “utterly stunning,” quipping that after the performance “audience members picked their jaws up off the floor.” In December 2007, the head of the Republic of Tuva honored Alash member Bady-Dorzhu Ondar with the title of People’s Xöömeizhi of Tuva, the highest honor in throat singing.

What distinguishes this gifted young group from earlier generations of Tuvan throat singers is the subtle infusion of modern influences into their traditional music. They are open to new musical ideas while remaining true to the traditions of their grandparents and generations past. The result is an intriguing tapestry of new and old, east and west.

More information about Alash and Tuvan music, including audio and video clips, can be found at the Alash website: http://www.alashensemble.com

Timothy Hill was an original member of David Hykes' world-renowned group The Harmonic Choir, and he is one of the pioneers in the art of harmonic singing, or overtone singing. A dynamic and engaging performer, his broad range of experience with jazz, folk, and world music gives his music a richness and depth rarely heard today.

To learn more about Timothy Hill visit: http://www.timothyhillmusic.com

Official Website: http://www.banjojims.com/gigs.htm