The Minister of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Aida Balayeva, visited the new Museum of Art in Astana.

The Minister got acquainted with the museum's exposition, which presents more than 1600 copies of national musical instruments. Special attention is paid to rare and almost forgotten ones: such as zhelbuaz, mes syrnai, uildek, tastauyk and others.

All exhibits are handmade by museum staff. In addition, they demonstrated the hall of national clothes and the institution's own workshop.

Aida Balayeva noted that today in Kazakhstan there is a shortage of craftsmen capable of recreating ancient folk instruments, jewelry and clothing. According to her, the opening of the first such museum in Astana will contribute to the popularization of national culture and crafts.

"Musical instruments and clothing are part of our national heritage, reflecting the history, mentality and culture of the people. As you know, we recently opened the Creative Industries Fund. Since handicrafts are part of the creative industry, I propose opening its office on the basis of a branch of the museum. The Foundation and the museum will be able to be visited by tourists and foreign guests, which will contribute to the promotion of our national culture both in Kazakhstan and abroad," the minister emphasized.

During the visit, a musical performance was also presented - a performance by the JOSHY QAZAQ NATIONAL GROUP multi-instrumental ensemble. By the way, the artists of the group independently make musical instruments and create original compositions.

The Museum of Art is located in the historical building of the former school, built at the end of the 19th century. In 1982, the object was included in the list of historical and cultural monuments of republican significance and taken under state protection. A special workshop for the reconstruction and preservation of ancient musical instruments will operate on the basis of the museum.

The new museum operates on the basis of the city Directorate of United Museums, which also includes the memorial complex for victims of political repressions and totalitarianism "ALZHIR" and the Saken Seifullin Museum.