Dombra’s Melodies Echo through Europe’s Highest Peak
Kazakh Dombra Player Alibek Kaiyrbek Performs “Adai” Kui at Mount Elbrus, Highest Peak in Europe
Kazakh dombra player Alibek Kaiyrbek recently made history by reaching the highest peak in Europe, Mount Elbrus in the Caucasus, where he performed Kurmangazy’s famous kui “Adai” at an altitude of 5,642 meters. The iconic dombra, a symbol of Kazakh identity and a beloved instrument in Kazakh culture, resonated at such a height, capturing the essence of the Kazakh people.
In an interview with The Astana Times, Kaiyrbek shared the inspiration behind his journey, revealing that the idea to play the dombra at the summit of Mount Elbrus had been a long-time dream that he finally decided to pursue this year. As the head of a concert organization at the University of Arts and a dombra player at the Kuanyshbayev Kazakh State Academic Musical Drama Theater in Astana, Kaiyrbek has been promoting Kazakh culture and folk music on the global stage for years.
For Kaiyrbek, the climb was not only about reaching the top but also about symbolizing the strength and resilience of Kazakh culture. Performing a solo concert at the camp for tourists, climbers, and locals, he received a warm reception, especially from those with historical connections to Kazakhstan.
Despite facing challenges such as atmospheric conditions impacting the dombra’s performance, Kaiyrbek’s determination and dedication paid off. The sound of the dombra at 5,642 meters reflected the unbreakable spirit and energy of the Kazakh people, embodied in the classic composition “Adai.”
Looking ahead, Kaiyrbek plans to continue promoting Kazakh culture on a global scale by embarking on his next expedition to the highest peak in Africa, Kilimanjaro. As he prepares to perform another kui on Kilimanjaro, Kaiyrbek aims to inspire the younger generation to embrace their traditions, learn to play the dombra, and take pride in their cultural heritage.
Through his extraordinary musical journey, Kaiyrbek is not only achieving personal milestones but also carrying out a vital mission to ensure that the sounds of the dombra resonate in the farthest corners of the world, celebrating the beauty and uniqueness of Kazakh culture.
