Das_Musikleben_der_Ojraten

In particular, the musical life of the predominantly nomadic Oirats (an ethnic minority in western Mongolia) reflects not only their customs, worldview, and religious beliefs but also their deep connection to nature.Since the cultural transformation of 1990, Mongolia has been shaped not only by a market economy and democracy but also by the growing efforts of ethnic groups to preserve their cultural identity. With the increasing popularity of Bij dance and Khöömei (throat singing) on both national and international levels, many cultural bearers have become more aware of their heritage and their claim to it. Expressions such as "This belongs to us" (manaich) or "Only with us is it authentic" have increasingly become points of contention between ethnic groups. These developments are also linked to the special role of the Khalkha group in Mongolian society. This paper is based on field research conducted by the author in the eleven Sum (administrative divisions similar to counties or districts) of Khovd Province in western Mongolia.