Phurbu T Namgyal
Phurbu T Namgyal is a musician/singer based in US
1. Why is art important?
Art is another way to tell a story about self or others. In a broader sense, it is tied to our culture. Through various art formats, we are able to communicate and showcase our culture, tradition and beliefs to others. Art is important for past, present and for future, due to their deeper meaning and messages behind the work.
2. How did you begin your career? What were the defining influences and impulses?
Oh man. How did I begin my journey in Tibetan music? There were various factors that contributed in my early interest in Tibetan music. Some of the ones I can remember are; of course my passion in Tibetan music, the opportunity that was presented to me in school, musical inspirations from the likes of Trinkhor and Rangzen Shunu. They were huge when we were growing up. And of course, my family who played a major role in letting me continue down the path in Tibetan music.
3. Can you tell us about your evolution as an artist?
Song writing in me didn’t start right away as most musicians and writers will tell you. I guess it’s the same with me. I initially learned how to sing, how to play certain instruments and how to do it all together. Eventually I started to get my thoughts and feelings down on a piece of paper and tried to come up with a melody for them. That’s when I realized I can do something with this form of art that may be in me. I just had to keep at it and sharpen the skill of song writing and composition. And that’s the story of my evolution as an artist J
Yes, everybody can learn something and play that. Or learn something and sing that. But to be able to express your feelings and thoughts into an art form needs practice, patience, lot of hard work and determination.
4. What is your favorite piece of art by another artist (in any medium)? Why do you like it so much?
Music being my form of art and the medium, I have always enjoyed and have fond memories of the old musical work of Trinkhor. I love their old songs probably made in the 80s. The reason I like their early works is because of their style and influence on many of my generations. I must admit, we didn’t have too much of an option to listen to growing up, esp in contemporary Tibetan music. I remember there was Trinkhor, Rangzen Shunu, some songs from TIPA and the songs of Jampa Tsering from Tibet. I bet many readers in my age group remembers some of the songs from these sources in the 80s.
5. What is your favorite piece by yourself?
It’s not easy to pick one of my own works over the others. So I guess I’ll go with the listeners on this question. They have over 50+ songs to choose from, from 7+ albums over the past 10+ years.
6. Describe your style.
It is a contemporary Tibetan music with traditional and classical style in the back.
7. How do you nurture your skill or talent?
I write and play as often as my schedule permits and that’s how I keep in touch with my art. With other priorities in life, it’s not always easy to be on the road for music.
8. How can art change the world?
If art can convey a message to people, then art can definitely change the world.
9. Tell us about your dream project.
Put up a huge stage in front of the Potala Palace and being able to entertain the Tibetans living inside Tibet on a full-moon night. I’d take this option any day over anything else.