The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a specialized agency established to promote peace and security through international cooperation in the fields of education, science, and culture. The international organization continues to actively support the preservation of intangible cultural heritage in Uzbekistan and to raise awareness of its significance at local, national, and international levels.
The UNESCO Office in Uzbekistan, in close collaboration with the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Uzbekistan, organized a series of training sessions aimed at preserving the ancient traditions of crafting the musical instrument kobyz and the performative art of "zhyrau." The training workshops were held from 21 to 27 October 2024, in the city of Nukus, the Republic of Karakalpakstan (Uzbekistan). This initiative is focused on creating and expanding traditional knowledge and skills related to the craftsmanship of the musical instrument and the performative art of "zhyrau" among the local population, with a particular emphasis on the younger generation.
The main objectives of the project are to identify elements of intangible cultural heritage, expand the knowledge of key stakeholders in the region about the process of crafting the musical instrument kobyz and the performative art of "zhyrau," and to raise public awareness of the ongoing efforts to preserve intangible cultural heritage with an emphasis on the Republic of Karakalpakstan.
The kobyz is one of the oldest bowed string instruments in the world. Its creators, the Turkic tribes, made changes to its shape and purpose in accordance with their musical concepts, artistic-aesthetic traditions, and available natural materials. Traditionally, the kobyz was crafted from a solid piece of wood, reflecting the ancient beliefs of many Turkic peoples that the singing soul of the tree, which would resonate in the instrument, is preserved only in an intact section of wood. The open body of the kobyz, with its two strings made from twisted bundles of horsehair, produces a rich and resonant sound with many overtones. The kobyz is considered the ancestor of a number of bowed instruments.
The "zhyrau" performers were the custodians of oral folk art, through which history, epics, and songs were passed down from generation to generation. They performed their works at celebrations and important gatherings. The art of "zhyrau" played a significant role in shaping the identity of the people.
International and national experts, including young professionals, singers, artisans, researchers, and other stakeholders, actively participated in training sessions organized to exchange experiences in developing strategies for the preservation and promotion of the craftsmanship of the kobyz and the performing art of "zhyrau."
The training sessions served as a platform for discussions on methods of preserving and transmitting cultural heritage, as well as the role of youth in safeguarding these important elements of heritage.
Practical sessions provided participants a unique opportunity to explore a variety of instruments and different styles of performance. They learned the basics of tuning the kobyz and bowing techniques, along with fundamental vocal techniques necessary for performing epics and folk songs.
Visiting the State Museum of History and Culture of Karakalpakstan has become an important part of the educational program, where training participants could gain a deeper understanding of the cultural heritage of Karakalpakstan and its connection to musical traditions. Immersion in culture through music helps preserve and transmit the rich heritage of the Karakalpak people to future generations.
The events were held within the framework of the project "Urgent Protection of the Traditional Musical Instrument Kobyz and the Traditions of Zhyrau Performance," funded by the Intangible Cultural Heritage Fund of the UNESCO Convention.