Albuquerque offers reward for return of instruments
Posted June 12, 2011

On June 11, 2011, kasa.com reported that Albuquerque is offering rewards up to $1000 for tips leading to the return of the instruments. Anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers at 505-843-STOP (505-843-7867) or visit the Crime Stoppers Website.

Update on Stolen Items - How to Help
Posted May 18, 2011

The thieves took visas, clothing and the presents that the band members had purchased for their children. The U.S. government charges $330 for each lost visa, and the musicians need a few changes of clothing to get through the rest of the tour. When they get home, they need to replace their instruments and their costumes. Anyone who wants to help defray these costs can send a contribution:

Paypal
Use PayPal's Send Money. Recipient's email address is alashensemble@gmail.com (The name associated with the account is Sean Quirk.)

Check
Please make checks payable to Juniper Green, LLC and mail to:
Alash Ensemble
5956 N. Berkeley Blvd.
Whitefish Bay, WI 53217

Please include your name and address so that Alash can send you a thank you note.

Alash's Instruments Stolen
Posted May 16, 2011

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Alash's instruments and costumes were stolen in Albuquerque, New Mexico, on Sunday, May 16, just before the band was to appear at the Festival of Asian Cultures. Some of their passports, visas, and clothes were also taken. The missing instruments are all handmade, and some are quite old. Although devastated by the loss, the group performed at the Festival, using only their voices. One fan wrote of the performance, "This was one of the most amazing moments in my life. These men, the depth of the talent, were inspiring."

Despite their successful performance at the Festival, the band needs instruments to continue their tour. And authentic Tuvan instruments are hard to come by outside of Tuva. Luckily, a friend and supporter in the U.S. has a few to lend. So Alash will be able to make all their concert dates, albeit with a few changes to the repertoire. The musicians are taking it in stride. Sean Quirk, their manager and interpreter, says, "We can use this as an opportunity to push our creativity."

Anyone who wants to help can contact the group at alashensemble@gmail.com or the webmaster at jbb@kovitzsystems.net.