Bureau of Lost Culture Stories and Sounds of Central Asia
Aug 19, 2021
Monica Whitlock, a documentary maker and former BBC foreign correspondent, shares her captivating experiences in Central Asia. She discusses the vibrant sounds of bird markets and sacred springs, and the emotional impact of Karlo Bay's dombra performances. Whitlock also delves into unique wedding rituals, the chaotic energy of the Buzkashi horse game, and the poignant stories of Tajik refugees and their choirs. With tales of resilience amidst conflict, she paints a rich audio tapestry of a region woven with diverse cultures and histories.
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Village Dombra Session
- Monica recorded Karlo Bay playing the dombra in his village living room during a hot afternoon.
- The spontaneous session captured deep Kazakh balladry and warm hospitality from a family in Tashkent.
Weddings As Communal Theatres
- Uzbek and Tajik weddings use enormous surne trumpets and ritualised outdoor feasting.
- The ceremonies combine Zoroastrian echoes, strict gender roles, and intense communal performance.
Bird Market Soundscape
- Monica recorded Tashkent's bird market blending Russian accordion music with Uzbek mendicant prayers.
- The market reflected Tashkent's linguistic and cultural crossroads where diverse sounds coexist.