Almaty's annual Spirit of Tengri festival has returned, transforming Kazakhstan's cultural capital into a vibrant hub for Central Asia's contemporary ethnic music scene. Now in its 11th edition, the event bridges ancient nomadic traditions with experimental soundscapes, attracting musicians and audiences from across Eurasia.
A Bridge Between Eras
Founded in 2013, the festival showcases throat singing, traditional instruments like the dombra, and modern electronic reinterpretations through its signature 'ethno-fusion' concept. This year's lineup features artists from Mongolia's Altai Mountains to Turkey's Anatolian Plateau.
Global Appeal, Local Roots
"What began as local cultural preservation has become a platform for cross-border dialogue," explains CGTN's Chen Yilin, who co-hosts festival coverage with Silkway TV's Kunsaya Kurmet. The pair will explore backstage collaborations between Kazakh folk ensembles and international producers.
Organizers emphasize the festival's role in promoting intergenerational exchange, with master classes pairing veteran musicians with youth orchestras. Evening performances at Almaty's Kok-Tobe amphitheater offer panoramic views of the Tien Shan mountains as a natural backdrop.
