A reflection on Alash:
On April 6, 2022 over 600 people, both returning and new to LOH came together for an educational performance by Alash. Alash, masters of Tuvan throat singing, presented a free one-hour performance which included an introduction by Dr. Theodore Levin, Professor of Music at Dartmouth College.
Trained since childhood, the members of Alash are renowned performers of xöömei, a remarkable technique for singing multiple pitches at the same time. Both children and adults got to leave the theater with new information, having heard awe inspiring music.
Between sets of songs, the band’s tour manager/interpreter Sean Quirk provided information regarding the unique art form. Sean spoke about the variations of throat singing while examples were provided by the members and of the instrumentation brought with the ensemble. Sean also spoke of the hardships that occurred with going on tour among the ongoing pandemic.
Through partnership between Alash and Lebanon Opera House, alongside the kind sponsorships of the Valley News and Lyme Inn, this event was offered free of charge with the intent to provide music and educational experiences to everyone regardless of age, ability, or economic access. This experience provided opportunity to individuals who might not have otherwise been able to see music of it’s caliber.
Lebanon Opera House is dedicated to replicating these opportunities, and creating more equal access performing arts events in the future.
Dushpuluur (left) -- a three-stringed instrument, often compared to a banjo because is is plucked or strummed, although the doshpuluur's strings are unfretted. Igil (right) -- a two-stringed instrument whose teardrop shaped body is held between the legs and bowed like a cello.
A large frame drum made of goat skin which is tapped with the fingers or struck with a mallet. The drum is tuned by tightening or slackening the straps around the frame.
Introduction by Dr. Theodore Levin, Professor of Music at Dartmouth College
