Throat Singing 2023-2024 in Mongolia

When one listens to traditional throat singing, it sounds as if a few singers are performing simultaneously, however, this comes out of a single throat. This unique Mongolian type of singing involves the overlapping of different pitches and is familiar to most herdsmen who delight in listening as their music re-echoes over the steppes. Recently, also female singers have been trying to learn this unique art.

Where to Witness Throat Singing

You can listen to the musical wonder in the Tumen Ekh theatre found beside the main road of Ulaanbaatar. The theatre operates throughout the entire year, offering a wide range of traditional Mongolian shows that feature throat singing ​as well as live music performed with various traditional nomadic instruments, typical national dancing, and all other elements of local folklore. The only thing to consider is that in the peak season, which is from summer to autumn, the shows are held much more frequently than in the off-season, but the tickets are always sold out rather quickly.

Throat Singing Courses

Another thing you could do is to take part in the throat singing summer course offered by cultural organizations (look up the Khuumii Mongolian throat singing). This unique cultural experience is worth your time and money, and definitely must be included in your things-to-do-in-Mongolia list.

Significance

In 2009, UNESCO inscribed the Mongolian art of singing, known as Khuumii (Khöömei), on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Performed by Mongolian nomads, Khöömei is featured in various social occasions, from grand state ceremonies to festive household events. It is also sung during herding and inside yurts to lull babies to sleep. Traditionally, Khöömei is transmitted orally from one generation to the next or through a master-apprentice relationship.