Young Talents: The Dream of the World Stage — How 14-Year-Old Kasiet Aalieva from At-Bashy Conquers the Art of Komuz

Ирэн Орлонская Society
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In the Naryn region, there is a rise of a new generation of artists who hold deep respect for national culture and strive to preserve traditional music. A vivid example is 14-year-old Kasiyet Aalieva from the At-Bashinsky district, who demonstrates determination and hard work, as well as a love for folk art.

Kasiyet was born on April 10, 2011, in the village of Acha-Kayindy and is currently studying in the 8th grade at Oi-Tersken Secondary School. A Turmush correspondent spoke with the young komuz player to learn about her aspirations and achievements, as well as her plans for the future.

“Since childhood, I have been enchanted by performers playing the komuz that I saw on television. In my dreams, I imagined myself on a big stage. I even told my mom: ‘I will be a komuz player, I will perform in the USA, and you will bring me a big bouquet of flowers,’” shares Kasiyet.

Today, her childhood dreams have become a reality thanks to hard work. Kasiyet began playing the komuz in the 2nd grade and, after 5 years of training, successfully graduated from music school. Her first significant achievement was taking 3rd place in an online competition, and then, performing in the ensemble “Güldöy ber,” she secured 1st place, demonstrating excellent teamwork skills. Moreover, Kasiyet actively participates in remote competitions, honing her skills.

Gallery: Komuz player Kasiyet Aalieva.
She also successfully passed the first round of the “Delphic Games” and advanced to the second stage, and in Bishkek, as a seventh grader, she took 3rd place in a competition. These competitions have become not only a challenge for Kasiyet but also a valuable experience that has strengthened her confidence and contributed to her creative growth.

One of the significant events for her was the international festival “Naryste,” which took place in 2025. At this event, she met young musicians from all over the country and exchanged experiences with them, which significantly broadened her horizons.

In the future, Kasiyet dreams of representing the Kyrgyz komuz on the world stage, but right now she is faced with a choice between two paths:

- musical art;

- medicine (KGMA).

Kasiyet's parents provide her with great support and help in every endeavor. “I am very grateful to my parents for their moral and financial support. Without them, it would be difficult for me to achieve success. I also want to express my gratitude to Nazira-ezhe,” she says.

When Kasiyet started her studies at music school, she did not have a developed musical ear, but that did not stop her. Thanks to constant practice and the support of her teachers, her ear improved, and she mastered the instrument. Her repertoire now includes more than 20 pieces. Despite the fact that a certificate is issued after 5 years of study, Kasiyet decided to continue her education in an additional course to deepen her knowledge.

Kasiyet especially values her mentor Zaripa Tolobaeva: “She is very patient and understanding, always supports us and creates conditions for our growth not only in music but also in other areas,” she notes.

For Kasiyet, the komuz is not just a musical instrument but a sacred heritage of her people. “Every Kyrgyz should know the komuz. It is part of our history and pride. As long as the komuz sounds, the spirit of the Kyrgyz people lives on,” emphasizes the young artist.

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