Kazakh Classical Music Developing Rapidly
By Aiman Mussakhodjayeva
Aiman Mussakhodjayeva is the Art Director of
the Kazakh State Chamber Orchestra “Academy
of Soloists” and the Rector of the Kazakh
National Academy of Music in Astana.
Speaking of her music, she says:
The highly developed, diverse, and colorful
musical life of Kazakhstan reflects a
dynamically changing musical culture with
respect for ancient roots.
The oral tradition of Kazakh music operates on
two levels, folklore and folklore-professional. In
the 1930s and 40s, it was expanded by the
written music of professional composers who
were influenced by Western European and
Russian classical traditions. The written music
emerged as a product of the cultural policy of
the Soviet Union under which all Soviet republics
had to create their national operas, symphonies,
ballets, oratorios, and other musical entities. But,
the first composers of professional classical
written music extensively incorporated folklore
melodies, songs and kuyis created by the folk
musicians.
So, while traditions of the Kazakh folk music are rooted in ancient times, the traditions of written professional music are closely tied to both the genres of folk music and classical traditions.
Almost every big city in Kazakhstan has its own philharmonic societies with orchestras of traditional instruments, symphony orchestras and dancing ensembles. In large cities, such as Almaty, Astana, Petropavlovsk, Karaganda, Pavlodar and Shymkent there are symphonic and chamber orchestras. There is only one theatre of musical comedy in Karaganda. Hundreds of talented young musicians are trained at professional secondary musical schools. Annually, nationwide musical competitions take place to stimulate and discover talent. Later, winners of these competitions successfully represent Kazakhstan in international competitions.
Members of the Kazakh State
Chamber Orchestra are winners
of many international competitions
both as soloists and members of
the ensembles. Every member of
the orchestra must perform as a
soloist at least twice a year.
Some musicians are graduates
of the Moscow and other
conservatories. Most orchestra
musicians are graduates of the
Almaty Conservatory and the
National Academy of Music.
Since Kazakhstan’s independence
in 1991, we have also seen a
quickening of interest in continuing
Kazakhstan’s rich musical
traditions. Dozens of operas and
ballets have either been
refurbished or newly created. It is very much a part of the fabric of our life.
To promote national music, both traditional and classical, our performers often tour outside of the country. Besides, audio and video recording of this music contributes to the promotion of the Kazakhstan’s musical culture. We hope the upcoming concert will become an important event and will allow Americans to share our joy in our national music.
