Melong as described by the wikipedia is a Tibetan term that holds the semantic field: "mirror", "looking glass". The melong is a polyvalent symbol, divine attribute, and quality of the enlightened mindstream or bodhicitta. It is also described as someone reflecting upon ones self being as well.
Melong band was formed because we felt the need for a Tibetan live band in the United States. The band comprises of members who have experiences in Tibetan and Western Music. Tenzin Ngawang who sings and plays majority of the Tibetan instruments in the band is a graduate from the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts in Dharamsala India where he was born. Guitarist/Vocalist Tenzing Jigme was born in Nepal. He studied Music at the University of Colorado in Denver where he graduated with a degree in Music Industry Studies. Bass guitarist Jampa Choephell has also been involved in the Tibetan music scene since his days in Dharamsala where he worked with Yak Band and AaKaMa band. Part time keyboards player Tashi Phuntshok and Drummer George Dorjee round off this five piece band.
Together their diverse backgrounds in music brings about a certain unique element to their sound which they hope will serve as a platform for the unheard voices of Tibetans in Tibet. Their goal is to perform all over the world and spread the message of hope, peace and social justice while making sure that the issue of Tibet is raised at every show they play.
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