Ulaanbaatar
Mongolian Jaw Harp Artists Impress Global Audience in Japan
Art & Culture
Ulaanbaatar, October 29, 2025 /MONTSAME/. The 10th International Jew’s Harp Congress and Festival (IJHC/F) was held in Akan, Hokkaido, Japan, from October 24 to 27, 2025, bringing together leading folk musicians and researchers from over 50 countries to showcase their traditional musical heritage.
The Jew’s harp, a small yet expressive instrument,
traditionally crafted from metal or bamboo, produces its distinctive “byong” sound when
played against the mouth. Since its inception, IJHC/F has been held 10 times in
countries where the instrument holds deep cultural significance, with this year’s
edition taking place in Japan.
Every edition gathers performers, instrument makers,
and researchers from across Asia, Europe, and beyond.
Representing Mongolia, nine members of the Mongolian
Ethnic Jaw Harp Association participated in the event, captivating audiences
with their unique melodies and traditional playing techniques. Their
performances earned high praise from both the festival organizers and fellow
world-class musicians, conveying the spirit of sound, voice, and nature that resonates
across the Mongolian steppe.
During the festival, it was officially announced that
the 11th IJHC/F will be held in Kyrgyzstan, followed by the 12th edition in
Mongolia, marking a major milestone for the Mongolian folk music community.
In addition, Narandelger Byambaa, President of the
Mongolian Ethnic Jaw Harp Association and a Cultural Envoy of Mongolia, was
appointed to the Board of Directors of the International Jew’s Harp
Association, further strengthening Mongolia’s presence in the global folk music
scene.
Separately, the Mongolian Ethnic Jaw Harp Association has announced plans to host the 2nd Mongolian Jaw Harp Festival on November 11, 2025.
