A Steppe Closer

Long songs of the Western Mongols - Urtin duu in the Khalkha language and Ut Dun in the local Oirat language - embody the unique historical and sociocultural characteristics of the region. This project aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the traditional repertoire and the interconnections between poetics, ritual context, and vocal performance in Zakhchin long songs.

Based on original fieldwork data, this research reflects the authors' long-term commitment to documenting Oirat folk songs. A joint field session in September 2025 highlighted the methodological synergy of ethnomusicological and philological perspectives. Furthermore, the collaboration between local and visiting researchers provided a many-sided perspective on the subject, offering a more holistic understanding of the Zakhchin's traditional heritage.

Presented data collected from folk singers in Mankhan Sum, with a primary focus on the extensive repertoire of S. Batmunkh. His performances exemplify the high level of preservation within the community, which is said to maintain a vast repertoire of more than 360 distinct long songs.

While Oirat long songs have attracted increased scholarly attention, their generic classification remains underexplored. Consequently, the core taxonomical criteria remain poorly understood within contemporary discourse, and this presentation will also explore several key areas and outcomes that demand further research and systemic analysis.

The focus of this presentation is the long song Үдийн Алта (Udiin Alta) performed during the Dallaga ritual to beckon fortune and prosperity. This song is traditionally performed in June at the ovoo during clan-based rites, as well as during the wedding ceremony. The presence of similar performance practices among Myangad and Urianhai demands further documentation and comparative analysis.

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