Tuvergen Musicians

This lecture-demonstration journeys from the traditional soundscapes of the Mongolian steppe to the creative and dynamic innovations of the global present. Through a combination of musical sound and spoken lecture, listeners will be transported into the complex and interconnected sound worlds of Mongolia, Tuva, and Inner Mongolia. This event will feature Inner Mongolian musicians and co-founders of the Chicago-based duo Hun Hazy, Tamir Hargana and Naizal Hargana, along with researched commentary by Skidmore ethnomusicologist, Charlotte D’Evelyn. Hun Hazy will offer a sampling of their work, which combines the ancient art of throat singing (khöömii), the sounds of the horsehead fiddle (morin khuur), and other Mongolian instruments with blues, rock, and global genres. Charlotte will contextualize the musical features and significance of this music—focusing on (1) the popularity and spread of Mongolian and Tuvan music across the globe over the past three decades and (2) the musical opportunities and challenges faced by Inner Mongolian artists such as Tamir and Naizal. This event invites audiences to not only hear extraordinary music but also to reflect on how sounds carry histories, identities, and aspirations across borders.