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Throat singing is a musical style that many Westerners might not even recognise as singing. It defies musical boundaries, using the mouth, larynx and pharynx to generate overtones — creating multiple simultaneous notes. Inuit throat singing adds the additional complication of sounds produced on in-breaths as well as out-breaths. The end result is a complex rhythmic pattern reminiscent of the human beatbox effect often heard in hip hop music.
Tanya and Celina perform a distinctive Inuit style of throat singing called nipaquhiit, traditionally performed by two women facing each other. In some regional variations, the women actually sing directly into each other's mouths — using them as resonators. Usually the songs take the form of a game of skill where each woman tries hard not to make the first mistake. Most Inuit throat song performances end in laughter. Some musicologists claim that Inuit throat singing is not a musical form but a kind of vocal game. Nipaquhiit was traditionally sung for entertainment while the men were away on hunting trips. Many of the songs imitate sounds from nature such as the wind, dog teams, rivers and mosquitoes.
Yat-Kha photo by Sue Ann Harkey
Performing as 'Tagaq', Tanya Gillis has taken Inuit throat singing into a new realm, mixing traditional sounds and techniques with avant-garde and electronic music. She has also taken this ancient tradition to new heights of popularity, performing with the Kronos Quartet at New York's Carnegie Hall, and collaborating with Björk. In a remarkable coup for a young artist, Tagaq's debut album Sinaa features the unmistakable voice of Björk.
Inuit throat singing is just one of many throat singing styles from around the world. While techniques may be similar, the resulting music is surprisingly different, with most other forms less rhythmic and relying more on either high flute-like overtones, or deep rumbling drones. The best known throat singing traditions are from central Asia, particularly the small republic of Tuva. Huun-Huur-Tu and Yat Kha are Tuvan bands who have achieved international recognition.
→ See a demonstration of Tuvan throat singing styles by members of Huun-Huur-Tu.
