By Kelsang Draggo
A recently formed “Nangma” ensemble made Chicago the blues capital of the world as their first stop on their first ever USA tour. Chicago Tibetan community hosted them and of course arranged the venue. Pema Rinzin and Tencho received them at the O’Hare airport * 5.30am Chicago time after a non-stop 16 hours flight from New Delhi. Of course they acclimatized during the course of their stay with the host families. The ensemble comprised of Tsewang Choedhen and Sonam Paljor from India with Chuki Tethong as lead vocalist with Sonam Tashi-“Acho Danny” from Canada. Jamyang Choeden from Chicago joined as a guest artist to tour with them.
After few hours of sleep they were under long hours of practice sessions. I have been witness to these grueling sessions as they practiced in my home. To the uninitiated dude like me all the songs seem so harmonious and perfect yet they practice a note here or pitch there over and over again almost to the level of perfection. How do they accomplish this I do not know? They are serious about their craft.
Their show to the community was held on April 1st Lake Street church in Evanston. The show was divided into three phases. The first was mostly “Nangma”and “toeshay” songs and second one with songs from Kham and finally the songs from Amdo especially “lalu” whatever that unique form means. Over the course of two hours Chuki la managed to change into three different costumes from the three provinces of Tibet. I saw one of the most original costumes that go along with songs that are “old” but still relevant today if you get the right singer. The watchword here is authenticity.
The next day they conducted workshop on Tibetan musical traditions to the children of the community. Many parents came to the workshop and they thanked them for their enthusiasm for introducing this tradition to the young and curious minds. These workshop will really help the diaspora Tibetan communities especially in the USA. As the Tibetan saying goes “ get the blessing while the lama is here “
I personally thought that they were here to present this one time unique form of singing called “nangma” but lately it is fast enjoying the status akin to dinosaurs. Chuki la told me that she is one person and one ensemble trying hard to resurrect “nangma” so that Tibetan people will have the alternative to both the old and new forms of singing/entertainment to make comparison or maybe choose one.
Chuki la was blessed with teachers who had been accomplished “nangma” singers and practiced very hard over many years. She is also dedicating this tour to the memory of these great singers and teachers.
I am not a musical enthusiast let alone “nangma” aficionado but this time I have to rethink my choice. Chuki la’s ensemble might even bring out closet “nangma” aficionados. My $15 entrance fee was worth it and I will definitely encourage you to enjoy the show and check the tour dates in “phayul” website. I will give 4 stars out of 5. Although I am not a musical critic but just an observer.
