Recreating the Steppe: Kazakh Musician Combines Voice and Traditional Instruments
Aizada Kemel: Kazakh Ethno-Musician Blends Nature’s Rhythms with Unconventional Instruments
Aizada Kemel, a Kazakh ethno-musician and composer, is transforming traditional instruments and vocal techniques into a unique sound that mimics the natural rhythms of the steppe. Born in Kokshetau in northern Kazakhstan, Kemel has spent years honing her craft, merging ancestral traditions with experimental sounds rooted in the natural world.
In her performances, Kemel creates a soundscape where birds call across invisible skies, wolves howl from hidden hills, and hooves strike ancient ground. Using unconventional instruments like clay flutes and iron, as well as vocal techniques that imitate the sounds of nature, Kemel’s music resonates with a spiritual quality that is both haunting and captivating.
Drawing inspiration from local composers and traditional Kazakh instruments, Kemel weaves a tapestry of sound that evokes the spirit of the Great Steppe. Her compositions, such as “Uly Dalanyn Kone Saryndary” (Ancient Echoes of the Great Steppe), blend animal imitations with traditional melodies, creating a seamless fusion of past and present.
While her sound has been compared to throat singing, Kemel emphasizes the distinctiveness of her techniques and sounds. As she continues to explore and experiment with new instruments and styles, Kemel remains dedicated to preserving and reviving the shared heritage of Turkic musical traditions.
Despite receiving both praise and criticism for her innovative approach, Kemel remains steadfast in her belief that music transcends borders and cultural boundaries. As she looks towards the future, Kemel dreams of further improving her improvisation skills and mastering new instruments to enhance her captivating performances.
As a final year student at the conservatory, Kemel’s journey as a pioneering ethno-musician is far from over. With a deep appreciation for the intuitive nature of music, Kemel continues to push the boundaries of traditional music and explore the limitless possibilities of sound.
