― 12 июня 2025 г.

International Festival of Folk Music Ensembles and Folk Instrument Performers held in Aktau

On May 11th, 2025, the International Festival of Folk Music Ensembles and Folk Instrument Performers, bringing together artists from all corners of the Turkic World, began with a grand opening ceremony within the framework of events held to celebrate ‘Aktau –The Cultural Capital of the Turkic World 2025’ declared as such by TURKSOY. The aim of the festival organised within this framework is to preserve and pass on the common cultural heritage of Turkic peoples to future generations.

During three days, the festival will feature performances of folk music and dance ensembles from various regions of Azerbaijan, Iran, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and the Russian Federation (Yakutia) as well as Kazakhstan. Among the participants are the ‘SIRVAN’ Folk Music Ensemble from Azerbaijan, the ‘Sarafshan’ National Ethnic Ensemble, the ‘Akak’ Folk Music Ensemble from Kyrgyzstan, the “Sogdiana” Chamber Orchestra from Uzbekistan, the ‘Nam Kılıhakh’ Ensemble from Yakutia, and art ensembles from the Atyrai, Kyzylorda, and Mangystau regions of Kazakhstan.

The first day of the festival began with a ceremony to determine the order of performances through the traditional “ashyk game” which provided colourful moments. The hosts who emphasised that this  represented ‘the first step on the path of art’ wished all the artists success.

Art ensembles participating in the festival are taking the audience onto an unforgettable journey  through melodies they played on traditional instruments and authentic dances they performed. The festival brings together the cultural diversity and musical richness of the Turkic World on the same stage, contributing to intercultural dialogue.

The festival, which will last until  May 13th, 2025, is also contributing to Aktau becoming one of the centres of cultural life in the Turkic World.