Stage chant diphonique Mongol féminin avec Zolzaya
Damba Zolzaya
Born in Chandmani, in the province of Khovd, known as the cradle of Mongolian throat singing, Damba Zolzaya (“Zola”) belongs to a new generation of artists who keep their country’s vocal heritage alive while allowing it to evolve.
he is among the rare professional female throat singers in Mongolia and currently works as a performing artist at the Drama Theatre of the Mongolian State University of Arts and Culture in Ulaanbaatar.
From a very young age, Zola dreamed of becoming an artist, without imagining that she would one day become a khöömii singer. Her journey began when she was accepted into the khöömii department of the Mongolian State University of Arts and Culture (SUIS) — as the only woman among twenty-six students.
Under the guidance of renowned masters such as Prof. B. Odsuren (Honored Artist of Mongolia) and S. Zagd-Ochir, she refined the demanding techniques of overtone singing and the various styles of khöömii.
In 2016, she earned a bachelor’s degree in throat singing, followed by a master’s degree in arts studies (2020) and a second bachelor’s degree in law (2023).
Zola’s career reflects a deep balance between art, perseverance, and cultural transmission. As a performer at the Musical and Drama Theatre of Khovd, she has participated in major stage productions such as Jangar and Galaikhan (the first throat‑singing opera). She has also collaborated on several international film projects.
Alongside her performing career, Zola is deeply committed to teaching and sharing her art. Through her workshops and educational activities, she continues to inspire a new generation — especially young women — to discover the depth and beauty of Mongolian throat singing and the living spirit of its cultural tradition.
Day Program
10:30 – Welcome of Participants
Arrival, tea/coffee, introductions.
11:00 – Opening and Introduction
Welcome by Zolzaya and Rowan – presentation of the day, its objectives, and an introduction to Mongolian throat singing (khöömii).
12:15 – Presentation: Mongolian Music and Throat Singing
Exploration of the traditional sounds of Mongolia, with a particular focus on khöömii in both traditional and contemporary contexts.
12:45 – Demonstration: Traditional Mongolian Instruments
Presentation and live demonstration of the tovshuur, tsuur, jaw harp, morin khuur, and the Altai harp.
13:15 – Lunch Break
14:30 – Cultural and Educational Exchange
Discussion on how throat singing is taught in Mongolia, as well as the history and role of women in this tradition.
15:00 – 17:00 – Workshop #1
Practical introduction to throat singing and overtone singing techniques – first steps in understanding the fundamentals of khöömii.
17:00 – Dinner Break
18:00 – 20:00 – Workshop #2
Further exploration and practice of the throat singing techniques introduced earlier.
20:15 – Closing
Discussion, Q&A session, and concluding remarks.
This workshop and conference mark an important moment in the cultural exchange between Mongolia and Europe.
For the first time, D. Zolzaya — one of Mongolia’s most respected Mongolian throat singers and traditional artists — will share her art, her journey, and her teaching methods in Switzerland.
