Real Canadians: Reviving the ancient art of Inuit throat singing in Nunavik

In the remote Inuit community of Kuujjuaq in northern Quebec, Janice Parsons and Sandy Emudluk lock arms and face each other as their performance begins. Katajjaq, known in the English language as Inuit throat singing, is more than just music — it’s a mesmerizing vocal competition that dates back centuries. The song begins with a series of rhythmic guttural sounds that are rooted in the Arctic landscape and mimic the sounds of animals and nature. The voices blend as each person tries to outlast the other and not break the rhythm by running out of breath or laughing. As I listen to the couple perform, I am utterly captivated. Read More