2001: The Arts Council
of Britain (Northern Arts) sponsored me to visit instrument
makers in Tuva. (Siberia)
Tuva is a Republic within the Russian Federation, but is
a country which has always been hard to access. Shamanism
remains a major influence. it does share a common musical
heritage with Mongolia and has become well known for it's
throat singing musicians, who are now able to tour outside
of Tuva, Asia and Europe.
Yat Kha from Tuva, won
the BBC World music award (Asia Pacific region) in 2002, and
they perform all over the world. Hun Huur Tu (Band) and Kongar
ol Ondar (throat singer) are well known in parts of Europe and
America. There are many other bands and individual singers who
are now touring and more information about these and Tuva can
be found on www.fotuva.org
Tuva has some particular instruments associated with the country
including, the Igil,
Chanzy, Bizanchy and Doshpuluur. .Shaman drums are also a feature
of Tuvan music.
