Nagma Toeshay : The Echo of Fading Tune

6th August 2008, TIPA: Today if one is looking out for a genuine Nagma Toeshay expert, possessing the in-depth knowledge and details of the classical Tibetan musical repertoire, there are just few handful of connoisseur left. Despite its gradual evolution and profound impact it had on Tibetan community, establishing an accurate chronicles and record of this art has still remained difficult and problematical. Reminiscent of the path that helps survived many of the indigenous culture, the chronicles of this art is also depended heavily on oral transmission for its very survival.

Mr.Sonam Tashi, alias Acho Danny is a former member of Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts and the co founder of the Chaksampa art and opera company, based in San Francisco. Born in nomadic family in Ngari region, western Tibet, at the tender age of four he left behind his home in Tibet with his family to seek refuge in India. In India, following his passion for music, he began studying vigorously in the disciplinary of Tibetan opera, music and dances at Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts. In 1982, he left the institute to represent Tibet, by taking part in various cultural festivals in Europe and North America. Displaying his devotion for traditional Tibetan music, he brought out his first solo album title 'My Dranyen" in the year 2006

Appreciating uniqueness of classical Tibetan songs and also at the same breath understanding the urgent need of ascertaining tradition of Nagma and Toeshay, he has embarked on a unique mission to establish a valid visual and audio account of this fascinating ancient art. In his quest to ascertain facts from fictions, he carried out a comprehensive ten years research and scholarly work on the subject matter. During the course of investigation, he had consulted few of the remaining experts, which include musicians from Tibet, exiled Tibetan musicians, aristocrats, lay musicians, elderly scholars and music enthusiast.

Co-directed by Sonam Tashi and Eric Henningson, this visual documentary would feature some rare interviews with resource person, notably Maja Tsewang Gyurmey, Sampho Rinpoche, Sholkhang Sonam Dhargyal and Geshe Nornang. In part, the documentary will also feature re-enactments scenes played out by the artistes from Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts and Tibetan Nagma ensemble, Switzerland. Filmed around the world by Vivica Henningson, the documentary would be a treat to watch for all those folks, who wishes to learn about the chronicles of Tibetan classical song.

Speaking of his experience in working with different people, Mr.Sonam Tashi was particularly moved and humbled by assistance provided by Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts, his alma mater. “ It was a moving experience, seeing the kind of passion the younger Tibetan artiste carries within. I must also convey my sincere thanks to all the members of Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts for providing both man and material supports.”

Glen Rowell Fund, United State has generously supported this project. As per schedule, the documentary will be premiered during the 50th founding anniversary of Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts.

Report prepared by Tenzin Lhaksam