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The vast, windswept steppes of Mongolia have given birth to unique musical traditions that capture the spirit of nomadic life and the country’s rugged landscape. Two of the most distinctive elements of Mongolian music are throat singing, known as khöömei, and the horse-head fiddle, or morin khuur. These ancient art forms have not only survived for centuries but continue to captivate audiences around the world with their haunting sounds and rich cultural significance.

Mongolian music is deeply rooted in the nomadic lifestyle of its people. The sounds often imitate nature, from the whistle of the wind across the grasslands to the galloping of horses. This connection to the natural world is a defining characteristic of Mongolian musical traditions, reflecting the close relationship between the Mongolian people and their environment.

The Art of Mongolian Throat Singing (Khöömei)

Mongolian throat singing, or khöömei, is a remarkable vocal technique that allows a singer to produce two or more pitches simultaneously. This ancient art form is believed to have originated among the nomadic herdsmen of western Mongolia, who used it to communicate over long distances and to mimic the sounds of nature.

Khöömei is characterized by a low fundamental pitch accompanied by one or more higher overtones. The result is a otherworldly, almost supernatural sound that seems to defy the capabilities of the human voice. To many listeners, it evokes the vast, open landscapes of the Mongolian steppes and the traditional way of life that has existed there for centuries.

Techniques and Styles of Throat Singing

There are several distinct styles of Mongolian throat singing, each with its own techniques and characteristics:

1. Khöömei: The basic style, which gives its name to the overall technique. It produces a mid-range fundamental tone with a whistle-like overtone.
2. Sygyt: This style creates a clear, flute-like whistle above a soft fundamental pitch.
3. Kargyraa: A deep, low-pitched style that produces a growling sound with multiple overtones.
4. Borbangnadyr: This style imitates the sound of water dropping or a flowing stream.
5. Ezengileer: Named after the Mongolian word for stirrup, this style mimics the rhythmic beats of a horse’s hooves.

Learning these techniques requires years of practice and dedication. Throat singers must learn to control their vocal cords, mouth shape, and breath in precise ways to produce the desired sounds.

The Horse-Head Fiddle (Morin Khuur): An Iconic Instrument

The morin khuur, or horse-head fiddle, is one of the most important and revered instruments in Mongolian music. This two-stringed fiddle is instantly recognizable by its distinctive horse-head carving at the top of the neck. The morin khuur plays a central role in Mongolia’s nomadic culture and is considered a symbol of the Mongolian nation.

The instrument’s design reflects the deep connection between Mongolians and their horses. Not only does it feature a carved horse head, but traditionally, its strings were made from horsehair, and the sound box was covered with horse skin. The music played on the morin khuur often imitates the sounds of horses, from gentle neighing to thunderous galloping.

Construction and Symbolism of the Morin Khuur

The morin khuur is typically made from wood, with a trapezoid-shaped body and a long neck. The traditional construction process involves several steps:

1. Carving the horse head: This is often the most intricate part of the instrument, requiring skilled craftsmanship.
2. Shaping the sound box: The trapezoid body is carefully constructed to produce the desired resonance.
3. Attaching the skin: Traditionally, horse skin is stretched over the sound box, though modern instruments may use other materials.
4. Stringing the instrument: Two strings, traditionally made of horsehair, are attached from the base of the body to tuning pegs at the top of the neck.

The symbolism of the morin khuur goes beyond its horse-head design. In Mongolian culture, the instrument is often associated with spiritual practices and is believed to have the power to connect the human world with the spirit realm.

Playing Techniques and Musical Styles of the Morin Khuur

The morin khuur is played with a bow, much like a cello or violin. However, its playing techniques are unique and require special skills:

1. Bow hold: The bow is held with an underhand grip, unlike the overhand grip used for most Western string instruments.
2. String contact: The player’s fingers never touch the strings directly. Instead, the sides of the fingernails are used to stop the strings.
3. Posture: The instrument is played in an upright position, balanced on the player’s knee.

The morin khuur is versatile and can produce a wide range of sounds, from deep, resonant tones to high-pitched whistles. It is used in various musical styles, including:

• Traditional long songs (urtyn duu)
• Short songs (bogino duu)
• Dance music
• Contemporary fusion styles

Often, the morin khuur is played alongside throat singing, creating a rich, layered sound that is uniquely Mongolian.

The Cultural Significance of Mongolian Music

Music plays a central role in Mongolian culture, serving as a means of storytelling, spiritual expression, and cultural preservation. Both throat singing and the morin khuur are deeply intertwined with Mongolia’s nomadic heritage and are seen as vital links to the past.

In traditional Mongolian society, music served several important functions:

1. Communication: Throat singing was used to communicate over long distances on the steppe.
2. Spiritual practices: Music often played a role in shamanic rituals and Buddhist ceremonies.
3. Storytelling: Epic tales and historical events were preserved and passed down through songs.
4. Celebration: Music was an essential part of festivals, weddings, and other important events.

Today, while many Mongolians have moved to urban areas, these musical traditions continue to be an important part of cultural identity and are actively preserved and promoted.

Legends and Folklore in Mongolian Musical Traditions

Many legends and folktales are associated with Mongolian musical traditions, particularly the morin khuur. One of the most famous tells of a shepherd who crafted the first morin khuur from the remains of his beloved horse, which had been killed by a rival. The horse’s spirit is said to live on in the instrument, which is why it can produce sounds so similar to a horse’s neigh.

Other stories speak of the magical powers of music:

• Tales of great khöömei singers who could summon rain or calm storms with their voices
• Legends of morin khuur players whose music could heal the sick or bring peace to warring parties
• Stories of musicians who could communicate with animals or spirits through their music

These legends underscore the spiritual and magical associations that Mongolians have long held with their musical traditions.

Modern Preservation and Global Recognition

In recent years, there has been a concerted effort to preserve and promote Mongolian musical traditions, both within Mongolia and internationally. In 2003, UNESCO declared Mongolian throat singing an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognizing its unique cultural value and the importance of its preservation [1].

Several initiatives have been implemented to ensure these traditions continue:

1. Educational programs: Music schools in Mongolia now teach traditional techniques alongside modern music.
2. Cultural events: Festivals and competitions celebrate and showcase traditional music.
3. Government support: The Mongolian government has implemented policies to support traditional artists and promote cultural heritage.
4. International collaborations: Mongolian musicians increasingly collaborate with artists from other cultures, bringing their traditions to a global audience.

These efforts have helped to revitalize interest in traditional Mongolian music, both at home and abroad.

Learning and Experiencing Mongolian Music

For those interested in experiencing or learning Mongolian music firsthand, there are several options:

1. Music schools: Some institutions in Mongolia offer courses in throat singing and traditional instruments for foreigners.
2. Cultural tours: Many tour operators in Mongolia offer experiences that include traditional music performances and workshops.
3. Online resources: There are numerous videos and online tutorials available for those wanting to learn the basics of throat singing or morin khuur playing.
4. Concerts and performances: Mongolian musicians frequently tour internationally, providing opportunities to experience this unique music live.

While mastering these techniques takes years of practice, even beginners can gain a deeper appreciation for the skill and artistry involved in Mongolian musical traditions.

Mongolian Music Festivals and Events

Mongolia hosts several music festivals and events that celebrate its unique musical heritage. These events offer excellent opportunities for visitors to experience traditional Mongolian music and culture:

1. Naadam Festival: While primarily a sporting event, this annual summer festival also features performances of traditional music and dance.
2. Khöömei Symposium: Held every two years in the western city of Hovd, this event brings together throat singers from around the world.
3. Roaring Hooves Festival: An international music festival that combines traditional Mongolian music with contemporary genres.
4. Ulaanbaatar International Film Festival: Often features documentaries and films about Mongolian music and culture.

These events not only showcase Mongolian musical traditions but also foster cultural exchange and help to keep these ancient art forms vibrant and relevant.

The Influence of Mongolian Music on Contemporary Artists

The unique sounds of Mongolian throat singing and the morin khuur have inspired musicians and composers around the world. Many contemporary artists have incorporated elements of Mongolian music into their work, creating fascinating fusion styles:

1. World Music: Artists like Huun-Huur-Tu have gained international fame by blending traditional Tuvan (a closely related tradition) and Mongolian music with contemporary styles.
2. Heavy Metal: Bands like The Hu have combined traditional Mongolian instruments and throat singing with heavy metal, creating a unique genre sometimes called “hunnu rock.”
3. Electronic Music: Some electronic music producers have sampled throat singing and morin khuur in their tracks, creating atmospheric and otherworldly sounds.
4. Classical Fusion: Composers have written works for symphony orchestras that incorporate Mongolian musical elements.

This global interest has helped to bring Mongolian music to new audiences and has contributed to its ongoing vitality and evolution.

Conclusion

Mongolian throat singing and the horse-head fiddle represent a rich musical tradition that has endured for centuries. These unique art forms capture the essence of Mongolia’s nomadic culture and its deep connection to the natural world. From the windswept steppes to international concert halls, the haunting sounds of khöömei and the morin khuur continue to captivate listeners and serve as a powerful expression of Mongolian cultural identity.

As Mongolia navigates the challenges of modernization, these musical traditions provide a vital link to the past while also evolving to remain relevant in the contemporary world. The growing global recognition of Mongolian music, coupled with efforts to preserve and promote these art forms, ensures that future generations will continue to be inspired by the ancient sounds of the steppe.

Whether experienced in the context of a traditional ceremony, a modern music festival, or through contemporary fusion styles, Mongolian throat singing and the horse-head fiddle offer a unique window into a fascinating culture. They remind us of the power of music to transcend boundaries, connect us to nature, and express the deepest aspects of human experience.

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UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. “Mongolian traditional art of Khöömei”