Gonzaga Welcomes Alash Ensemble to Campus

On Monday, Gonzaga welcomed the world-famous Alash Ensemble from Tuva in Central Asia to perform in Sheehy Theater. The foursome are masters of Tuvan throat singing (xöömei), which involves singing multiple pitches at the same time. The group has been performing together for over 25 years, and showcased their unique instruments and vocal techniques. The audience was respectfully awe-struck and very enthusiastic when invited to join the final song.

"I don't think anyone who saw Alash's performance will ever forget it," said Social Studies teacher Mr. Nick Pugliese '08, who helped bring the group to campus. "Studying the cultures of the world is one thing, but welcoming them into our community is another - it was a spectacular demonstration of the power and beauty of Tuvan culture that enthralled everyone. I've heard throat-singing in the hallway every day this week and students have been coming up to me to say how much they enjoyed it. One even said it was the best music he had ever heard. I asked the students to consider that being ‘open to growth’ means being curious about different cultures and traditions." 

Enjoy highlights from the presentation and performance below: