A growing number of Kazakh
citizens aspire to master the art of playing the national musical instrument
zhetigen, thus preserving and popularizing the musical heritage of their ancestors.
In the northern part of Kazakhstan, special clubs are opening up to teach those
who are passionate about exploring every aspect of this stringed instrument.
One such club is led by school teacher Ainagul Temirkhanova, who mastered the
ancient instrument on her own and now enthusiastically shares her knowledge
with the younger generation.
“I got my first knowledge of
zhetigen in a three-month online course led by the founder of a school for
adult professionals. Before that, I had never even held the instrument in my
hands,” Temirkhanova said.
Ancient melodies truly captivate
listeners, evoking a sense of depth spanning centuries. This is how most
students describe the mesmerizing sound of the zhetigen.
“Listening to the sounds of
zhetigen, one can sense the richness of Kazakh culture and history. I firmly
believe that, with dedication, anyone can learn to play the zhetigen. At
present, I have mastered five compositions: two songs and three kuis,” said
student Zhansaya Amangeldy.
