Musical duo teaches native traditions through throat singing

(ABC 6 News) – It’s an accidental encounter that turned into a musical duo.

One day Anastasia and nibiiwakamigkwe met in passing and didn’t think much of it. They eventually met again working at the same art studio in Madison, Wisconsin. From there, the two became friends and in 2019, began throat singing together. Something very personal for both of them.

"We’re going to different places and singing, and really kind of sharing this art form with people," said nibiiwakamigkwe. "As well as the visual art aspect behind it. And what it really means to, for me, to be indigenous to this land. To be from this space and how important that is."

For Anastasia Adams, it’s about bringing awareness to the art form. "It is something that’s been lost. And it is something that hasn’t been put to the forefront or known about," said Adams. "So I think it’s important that people are able to see that and I think it’s amazing that people are educating about that."

They are currently on tour as part of the 4Ground Midwest Land Art Biennial which included a stop at the Rochester Art Center. They will be at the Belwin Conservancy in Afton, Minnesota on July 31.