Biography

Altai Kai is a world renowned ensemble of throat singers from the Republic of Altai (bordering Northwest of Mongolia). The throat singing group was founded in 1997 by Urmat Yntaev, with the goal of preserving and cultivating the traditional culture of the Republic of Altai, in particular the various styles of throat singing known as Kai or Khoomei. Their velvety Kharkhiraa or Kargyraa (the lowest style of throat singing), mesmerizing khoomei (middle range throat singing), and melodic esgeree or sygyt (highest range throat singing) place the listener amidst forests of singing birds, gurgling brooks, and the growls of nighttime predators. Stories of nature's beauty and mighty folk heroes are accompanied by jocular melodies, dancing rhythms, and shamanic mysteries. The narrators skillfully relate traditional, sacred tales and epics of centuries past. 
 Throat singing and the ringing melodies of the khomus, topshur and accordion all come together to form the sound of Altai Kai. The art form of throat singing has been passed on through generations, and the members of Altai Kai are virtuosos in multiple genres. They are laureates of numerous national and international competitions, and Altai Kai has participated in prestigious international festivals of world music, including their international debut at WOMEX 2007 and WOMAD. In 2003, they were inducted into the Guinness Book of World Records for the longest performance of throat singing.