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DombraKuy



A dombra, is a large-bodied lute, especially popular among Turkic communities in Central Asia, particularly Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Afghanistan. The art Kazakh of DombraKuy involves composing a short solo composition performance performed on a pear-shaped musical instrument with two strings and a long neck.

The true meaning behind their performance was to demonstrate the sacred relationship they had with their Creator as well as to establish internal harmony within themselves. Kazakhs say that Kuy is Tanyrdyn sybyry ('Kuy is a whisper of Tengri'), and traditionally, Dombra was hung on the walls of each nomad's house (yurta).

The music connects people to their historical roots and traditions by using classical and improvised pieces that engage the audience on a spiritual and emotional level. A public performance is an important way to communicate between people as well as contribute to the transfer of knowledge and skills related to Kazakh culture and traditions.

Stories and legends are typically narrated with the music. The performers perform the music during social gatherings, holidays, and festive celebrations with a wide variety of food and musical entertainment. Music serves as a vital social and cultural experience, as well as a way to increase their skills and understanding in a community.

Aspiring and talented musicians are apprenticed to masters from the moment they demonstrate an interest in the philosophy of traditional music and performance. Amateur musicians are then apprenticed to more experienced and talented musicians from their region to develop their skills and repertoire.

Direct contact between a master and apprentice begins when a child displays interest in traditional music repertoire and philosophy, especially virtuosity. Whenever masters discover talent and enthusiasm in their students, they commit all their time, attention, and experience to teach them.

The educational process goes "from simple to complex", and may end when a student masters all the techniques, skills, and knowledge a master has taught him. Finally, master Kuyshi hands over his signature dombra and bestows his blessing or "Bata".

Nowadays, with the increasing urbanization of Kazakh society, Kuyshi is often raised in music educational institutions, like schools, colleges, and universities. To master the performance of dombra kuy, they learn and memorize its classic versions. The Kazakh traditional dombra kuy is preserved in the oral memory of every Kazakh community with respect to its variation and artistic improvisation by Kuyshi.


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