HuunHuurTu

Huun-Huur-Tu is a Tuva-based vocal ensemble formed in 1992 in Kyzyl, in the Tuva Republic of Russia. They are among the best-known interpreters of Tuvan throat singing, a traditional vocal art that blends overtone singing with drone-like accompaniment. The group is noted for preserving and presenting the distinctive sounds of Tuva to international audiences.

The ensemble specializes in khoomei singing, employing styles such as khoomei, sygyt and kargyraa. Their performances feature multi-voice textures, often with minimal instrumental accompaniment, emphasizing vocal timbre and the landscape-inspired imagery embedded in the region’s songs. Their repertoire includes traditional Tuvan songs as well as material inspired by epic storytelling and pastoral life.

Huun-Huur-Tu rose to international prominence after releasing their debut album 60 Horses in My Herd in 1992 on Shanachie Records. They have since toured worldwide, helping to spark interest in Tuvan music and influencing later generations of world-music artists through collaborations and festival appearances. Their work is commonly regarded as a bridge between traditional Tuvan culture and contemporary global music, highlighting the vitality of the khoomei tradition while exploring new textures and collaborations.

Over the years they have released several albums on various labels and have collaborated with Western musicians and artists from other traditions. The group remains active, continuing to perform, record, and promote Tuva’s vocal heritage through concerts, workshops, and cross-cultural projects.