Alash, a traditional folk music ensemble from Tuva, Russian Federation, was formed in 1999 at Kyzyl Arts College by Bady-Dorzhu Ondar, Ayan-ool Sam, and Ayan Shirizhik. Initially known as Changy-Xaya, the group evolved into Alash, named after the Alash River. Their breakthrough came in 2004 with first prize at the International Xöömei (throat singing) Symposium competition. In 2006, Alash toured the United States for the first time, invited by the Open World Leadership Center at the Library of Congress. They continued to tour annually and released several albums, including Live at the Enchanted Garden (2006), Alash (2007), and Buura (2012). Notable collaborations include touring with Béla Fleck and the Flecktones from December 2008 to December 2010.
