They do such atypical (for western/european cultural traditions) and fantastic things with their voices.
I find a lot of ethnic singing incredibly powerful, with a lot of strength put into the singing, like it was meant to carry across fields or mountains. This -- this just resonates.
And all the instruments. I never ceased to be amazed at the creativity of people when it comes to making music.
rqsays
The intricate craftsmanship is incredible -- the colours and the carving, so much care put not only in the sound but also the appearance. Music as a visual performance.
Are you familiar with the old “phases of the moon” album from the 80s? There’s some really great dancing and riding music from Northern China in there, with incredible erhu solos by the one and only Jie-Bing Chen.
Good music, also easy to approach. There is a lot that’s familiar but also elements like the throat singing.
I wonder where the flute/piccolo-like tones come from, whistling/whistle register singing or flageolet tones from the bowed instruments (morin khuur). Not likely the zither (yatga), though it looks as if the player could be palm muting to control the sustain, but even then, would such long notes be possible with a yatga? Or is there a woodwind player I don’t see?
rqsays
Ice Swimmer
I believe it is throat singing. From what I know of stringed instruments, you can’t make that sound (similar, with harmonics, but not as piercing). Also I’ve heard it featured in videos of throat singers.
Either way, a fascinating thing to do with one’s voice; human creativity in the search for artistic expression never ceases to amaze.
They do such atypical (for western/european cultural traditions) and fantastic things with their voices.
I find a lot of ethnic singing incredibly powerful, with a lot of strength put into the singing, like it was meant to carry across fields or mountains. This -- this just resonates.
Yes, it does. A wonderful lilt, cheerful yet deep.
And all the instruments. I never ceased to be amazed at the creativity of people when it comes to making music.
The intricate craftsmanship is incredible -- the colours and the carving, so much care put not only in the sound but also the appearance. Music as a visual performance.
Are you familiar with the old “phases of the moon” album from the 80s? There’s some really great dancing and riding music from Northern China in there, with incredible erhu solos by the one and only Jie-Bing Chen.
That is just fucking great. Oh man.
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Good music, also easy to approach. There is a lot that’s familiar but also elements like the throat singing.
I wonder where the flute/piccolo-like tones come from, whistling/whistle register singing or flageolet tones from the bowed instruments (morin khuur). Not likely the zither (yatga), though it looks as if the player could be palm muting to control the sustain, but even then, would such long notes be possible with a yatga? Or is there a woodwind player I don’t see?
Ice Swimmer
I believe it is throat singing. From what I know of stringed instruments, you can’t make that sound (similar, with harmonics, but not as piercing). Also I’ve heard it featured in videos of throat singers.
Either way, a fascinating thing to do with one’s voice; human creativity in the search for artistic expression never ceases to amaze.