Voice of the Mongols

Tovshuur (ᠲᠣᠪᠰᠢᠭᠤᠷ). The tovshuur is a traditional two-stringed lute from Mongolia known for its warm, resonant sound and deep cultural roots. For centuries it has accompanied nomadic herders and storytellers, and it remains popular in both traditional and modern contexts.

Morin khuur (ᠮᠣᠷᠢᠨ ᠬᠤᠭᠤ). The morin khuur is a traditional Mongolian bowed string instrument, known for its distinctive carved horse head and deep, resonant tone. Its bow and strings are traditionally made of horsehair, embodying the connection between Mongolian herders and their horses. Beyond its musical function, the instrument holds spiritual significance in folk songs, storytelling and rituals, and its melodies are said to echo the gallop of wild horses across the steppe.

Khoomei, Mongolian throat singing, imitates the sounds of nature: water, wind, and the calls of animals. Historically part of shamanic practice, it is now heard at celebrations and gatherings, and evokes the nomadic life of the steppe.

Anand Avirmed-Altangerel is an emerging master of Mongolian throat singing and a multi-instrumentalist. Born in Washington, D.C., he descends from a line of celebrated throat singers and considers it a privilege to share the musical heritage of the Altai Mountains with the world.

Since childhood, Anand has performed traditional Mongolian folk music at cultural events across Mongolia and North America. He has studied related traditions among the Kalmyks, Yakuts and other Central and Northern Asian peoples. He is proficient in five styles of khoomei and plays morin khuur, tovshuur, doshpuluur, igil, jaw harp, guitar, piano and bass.

His performances include solo concerts in Washington, D.C., collaborations with the Anura ensemble under his teacher Urlagbaatariin Khatanbold, and showcases at the Sound of Dragon Music Festival in Vancouver in 2022 and 2024.