Kurmangazy Sagyrbayuly (1818–1884) was a Kazakh composer, kuishi and dombra player, one of the greatest musicians of the Kazakh people. He was born in the Bukey Horde (now the territory of Western Kazakhstan) and showed a talent for playing the dombra from childhood. His teacher was the famous kuishi Uzak, but soon Kurmangazy surpassed many masters, creating unique melodies reflecting the life of the Kazakh people.

His work became a symbol of the struggle for freedom and independence. In his kuyas, he conveyed the suffering of ordinary people, their desire for justice and the spirit of resistance. For his views and support for the poor, he was repeatedly persecuted by the authorities, arrested several times and imprisoned. Despite this, his music continued to sound, passing from generation to generation.

Among his most famous works are “Saryarka”, “Adai”, “Kishkentai”, “Balbyraun”, “Turmeden kashkan”. These kui became symbols of Kazakh national identity, reflecting the strength, will and indomitability of the people. Today, Kurmangazy's music is performed not only in Kazakhstan, but also abroad, and the Kazakh National Orchestra of Folk Instruments bears his name. His work occupies a special place in the culture of Kazakhstan, and his contribution to the development of national music remains invaluable.