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U Myint Maung,
who passed away on 5 September 2001, was considered one of the best harpists
of the modern era. Originally from Inle Lake, he became an apprentice of the
legendary U Ba Than in 1962. He later moved to Mandalay, far from Rangoon, and
established a school in his home. The picture on the cassette cover was taken
in 1965, when he won a competition at the Mandalay School of the Arts.
Daw Yi Yi Thant is among the most highly regarded singers of the classical
Mahagita repertoire. She appears frequently on Burmese television, and was
recently featured on a Shanachie recording of Burmese music entitled White
Elephants and Golden Ducks.
Smithsonian Folkways recently released a new recording of classical songs
performed by U Myint Maung and Daw Yi Yi Thant. Entitled Mahagita, it features
nine songs of varied styles and extensive notes on the music and lyrics. It
was recorded shortly before U Myint Maung's death and is dedicated in his
name.
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