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Huun Huur Tu

Presented by One World Theatre at One World Theatre

October 14, 2011

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  “A musical marvel.”—New York Times

Using traditional instruments and drawing subtly on 20th-century composers, funky rhythms, and the palette of electronica, the Tuvan acoustic quartet Huun Huur Tu (HHT) transform ancient songs into complex acoustic compositions. From the independent republic of Tuva, bordering Mongolia, HHT perform an ear-twisting vocal technique called Khöömei – Tuvan throat singing. In this style, a single vocalist produces two or three notes simultaneously, often a low drone along with a high-pitched whistle. Accompanied by traditional string and percussion instruments, the four-member ensemble sings rhythmic songs that capture the magic of the Siberian steppe. The group began touring in the West 17 years ago and have spent decades innovating indigenous Tuvan music under the subtle influence of the music of 20th and 21st centuries – the result is both contemporary music that belongs to the whole world and a fresh take on the traditional music of Tuva. Since the group's inception, HHT has collaborated with musicians from many genres, such as Frank Zappa, Johnny Watson, the Kodo drummers, The Moscow Art Trio, the Kronos Quartet and The Chieftains. Their most recent recording Eternal is a collaborative effort with electronic musician/producer, Carmen Rizzo and accomplished film score composer Mark Governor. In January 2010, group Hazmat Modine also announced plans to record with Huun Huur Tu again. Huun Huur Tu was nominated for a 2008 BBC World Music Award.

“The Tuvans will ride into your brain and leave hoofprints up and down your spine.” San Francisco Bay Guardian