Kazakhstan is rich in talented youth who contribute to the development and promotion of national art. We want to tell you about one of these talents.

Zhanibek Maktanuly is a student at the Kurmangazy Kazakh National Conservatory. He is not only a performer, but also a multi-instrumentalist – the young Kazakh freely plays more than ten national and modern musical instruments, which, by the way, he can easily make with his own hands.

Zhanibek has his own unique style, with which he conveys the values ​​of Kazakh culture to a new generation.

We talked with Zhanibek. The young Kazakh shared his love for art and dreams of preserving national culture.

– When did you become interested in national art?

– It all started in childhood. I grew up in China, in a Kazakh environment that leads a traditional nomadic lifestyle and honors its roots. We constantly listened to musical works on dombra, sabyzgy, kobyz and other instruments on the radio. Members of my family are creative people, which also influenced the growth of my interest in music.

In 2017, I moved to Kazakhstan to pursue my dream. I entered the Kanabek Baiseitov College of Arts in Taldykorgan, where I studied dombra. I am currently a student at the Kurmangazy Kazakh National Conservatory. Here, within the walls of my alma mater, I became interested in making other instruments.

I am very lucky with teachers who not only share their knowledge and experience, but also instill a love of art. Taking this opportunity, I would like to express my gratitude to my teachers: Rakhman Apeuly, Ganise Kuanyshbaeva, Talgat Mukyshev, Darkhan Alimgazy, Araybek Askar and others.

– What musical instruments do you play?

I freely play such Kazakh national instruments as dombra, sybyzgy, zhetigen, sazsyrnai, shankobyz, sherter, kobyz, barbyt, and I have also mastered modern instruments - guitar, piano, ukulele and drums.

My interest in making instruments arose while studying at the College of Arts. Getting acquainted with the professional master Azamat Bakia at the Saryn Republican competition became an important stage - in his workshop we learned how to make instruments such as sabyzgy, sazsyrnai, orteke and kobyz with our own hands. Working with wood brings me peace of mind and inspiration.

It is not enough to be just a performer - it is important to understand the nature of the instrument, its origin, manufacturing methods and sound characteristics - only in this way can one comprehend the “soul” of the instrument. Therefore, the art of manufacturing helps to better find a common language with instruments and feel their “inner” world.

– What is art for you?

– Art and culture are the foundation of our history and identity. Therefore, the development and popularization of national art is our duty. Each creative work is a part of our culture that must reach future generations. Therefore, by engaging in art, I strive not only to develop my creativity, but also to preserve our national heritage.

Of course, for a hardworking person dedicated to their work, art can become a source of income. But for me, art is first of all the light of the soul, the desire of the heart.

– What, in your opinion, is necessary for the development of Kazakh culture?

– First of all, systematic support and a modern approach are needed. It is important to present national art to young people not only in traditional form, but also in modern formats, so that it is exciting. In the era of globalization, preserving national values ​​is not an easy task. Therefore, education and research, the use of digital tools, promotion, as well as state and public support are especially important in this direction.

– What do you personally do in this direction?

– I try to popularize national music - I play various instruments and participate in concerts and projects. I also teach - I train young people and try to awaken in them a love for art. I am currently writing a thesis on the topic “The Tradition of Playing Sybyzgy among Chinese Kazakhs” and collecting historical data. This is also a contribution to the musical cause. In addition, I introduce a wide audience to national music through social networks such as Instagram, YouTube and TikTok. I am currently working on a mobile application for learning to play the sybyzgy. I believe this will be a great way to promote our national heritage.

The ability of one person to masterfully perform on several instruments and actively promote national culture is a rare and valuable quality. Zhanibek Maktanuly's sincere love for Kazakh art and perseverance serve as an inspiration for many and show an example of true dedication to his work. We sincerely wish him further success, creative victories and new heights on his path!