Kazakh classical music concert celebrates Nauryz at Harvard

Harvard University hosted a vibrant concert of Kazakh classical music performed by American musicians in celebration of Nauryz, El.kz cites Kazakh FM.

Organized under the program“Celebrating Kazakhstan’s Cultural Heritage: Through Music, Tradition, and Performing Art,” the event served as a meaningful step in deepening cultural ties between Kazakhstan and the United States.

The concert brought together members of the Kazakh diaspora, as well as artists and cultural leaders from both countries. Vladimir Dyo, Artistic Director of Global Music Partnership(GMP), curated the evening’s program.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Dyo highlighted the importance of promoting national cultural heritage and underscored music’s role as a universal language that connects people across borders.

The program featured a compelling mix of traditional Kazakh folk music and contemporary compositions. Performers included cellist Justin Outlett, violinist Eun-Mi Lee, and the GMP String Ensemble. Together, they presented works such as “Qarakemer” for solo violin and strings, the Kazakh folk song“Yapurai” arranged by Kuat Shildebayev, “Allegro molto” from String Quartet No. 1 by Gaziza Zhubanova, the finale of “Boz Aigyr” by Yevgeny Brusilovsky, and the folk melodies “Dudar-ai” and “Naz Qonyr” arranged by Daulet Shakirov.

The fusion of traditional themes with modern interpretations deeply resonated with the audience, offering a unique opportunity to experience Kazakhstan’s rich musical legacy in a new light.

During a meeting with Elizabeth Batiuk, Director of the Global Music Archive at Harvard, organizers presented the musical score of “Qarakemer” – a work for solo violin and strings by acclaimed Kazakh composer Kuat Shildebayev. This addition will enrich American academic understanding of Kazakh folklore, known for its epic, narrative-driven musical form.

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