THE FIRST THROAT SINGING FESTIVAL IN EUROPE WAS SUCCESSFULLY HELD
Ambassador Davaasuren Gerelmaa welcomed Mr.Lucas Vertesi, head of the “Echoes of Steppes” and Mr. Chadraabal Baatarsuren, a renowned throat singer and musician from Chandmani soum, Khovd aimag—the birthplace of Mongolian khoomei, at the Embassy.
The meeting recognized the successful organization of the first-ever Mongolian khoomei festival in Europe, held on August 29–30 in Romainmôtier, Switzerland.
The organizers expressed their satisfaction with the success of the first-ever festival and shared their vision to make the festival an annual event—expanding its reach and impact in the coming years. They as well as extended heartfelt appreciation to the Embassy for its valuable support and presence to the festival.
The festival drew 37 talented artists from 13 countries, including Mongolia, the Netherlands, Croatia, the USA, Switzerland, the Czech Republic, Austria, Germany, France, Luxembourg, Tuva (Russia), China, and Italy to promote the uniqueness of Khoomii, which rooted in the vast steppes of Central Asia, to the world.
Winners of the Throat singing competition:
• First place: Dalai Damdin – Tuva (Russia)
• Second place: Frodi Fransman – Netherlands
• Third place: G. Khosbayar – Mongolia
Outstanding Performances:
o Bruno Bieri – Switzerland
o Jacob “Kuja” Jyawook – USA
The Jury of the festival were Mr. Rowan Hartsuiker, a Dutch artist and Altai harp musician and Mr. Igor Koshkendey, head of the Khoomii Federation of Tuva, Russia alongwith Mr. Baatarsuren Chadraabal.
During the Festival, series of workshops, including Mongolian long songs (urtyn duu), folk dance, and Mongolian storytelling events attracted audience and Mongolian products of wool, cashmere, and handicrafts were widely showcased.
More information: https://www.echoesofthesteppe.com/