by Carole Samdup, Special to WTN
MONTREAL – This week, the popular Tibetan music and dance group, Chaksampa, completed its 2003 Canadian tour with performances in both Toronto and Montreal. With a repertoire of old and new songs, Chaksampa delighted Canadians and Tibetans alike, demonstrating their incredible dexterity on traditional stringed instruments, accompanied by foot-stomping percussion.
The lay culture of Tibet often takes a back seat to the religious traditions that have come to define Tibetan identity. Sadly, this has meant that the popular music and dance of Tibet has struggled to survive both inside Tibet and in the exile community. Inside Tibet, Chinese influences have affected not only the tone and rhythm of music, but also the lyrics and costumes that were once so representative of local style and community. In the diaspora, modern-day popular music has overwhelmed interest in folk traditions while western interest is preoccupied with monastic music and sacred dance.
This is why Chaksampa – a performance troop comprised of former members of the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA) – is such a joy to experience. Not only do they keep old melodies and musical traditions alive, but they do so in a way that uplifts and inspires. Chaksampa also interprets and writes new music in traditional style that illustrates how culture can evolve and still remain true to its roots. Add to this their fine technical skills and professional delivery, the experience of a Chaksampa performance is one that will carry you from the past to the present in a delirious yin-yang of nostalgia and pure fun. To listen to Chaksampa perform is to be immersed in the beauty of Tibet’s unique culture and, at the same time, to be saddened by the threats to its survival.
Chaksampa – which means “bridge-builder” – is itself an example of survival and a testament to the mighty accomplishments of TIPA. TIPA was the first exile institution created by the Dalai Lama in 1959 when it was named “The Tibetan Music, Dance and Drama Society”. Since 1959, TIPA has trained hundreds of music and dance teachers who are now sharing their knowledge in exile schools and communities around the world. They also form a repertoire of artists allowing Chaksampa to change troupe members from city to city. With two core performers/managers, Sonam Tashi and Tashi Dhondup headlining each performance, the local additions bring a hometown feel which delights audiences and returns us to a time when music was a part of a community’s identity.
Chaksampa has released several recordings which are available for purchase through their website www.tibet.org/chaksampa. To arrange for a performance in your area, please contact Suzanne Shannon at 415-256-1816 or by email at chaksampa@yahoo.com
