Photo 24.kg. The group «Kumuz Samurai» In Kyrgyzstan, a group of Japanese who came to the country for work and study has created a unique musical ensemble called «Kumuz Samurai». In their free time, they study the Kyrgyz language and master the national instrument — the komuz.
On the eve of the New Year holidays, they held a musical competition (küü-taymash) with the professional ensemble «Ibarat».
Who is in the «Kumuz Samurai»: office, school, and komuz
The members of the «Kumuz Samurai» ensemble have been living in Kyrgyzstan for periods ranging from a few months to three years.
Photo 24.kg. The group «Kumuz Samurai» For them, playing the komuz is not just a hobby, but an opportunity to understand the culture of the country they live in more deeply. The time spent learning the instrument varies among them: some have been playing for three years, while others, like Tamai Hidekazu, started only a month ago.
The composition of the group is constantly changing: when one of the members returns to Japan, a new enthusiast takes their place, allowing the ensemble to continue delighting audiences with their performances.
Japanese avant-garde: how a classical musician became fascinated with küü (kyui)
Ando Takehiro was one of the first to become interested in the komuz. Before arriving in Bishkek in 2022, he played the violin in an orchestra, but did not pursue music professionally. In Kyrgyzstan, he decided to continue playing a string instrument and tried the komuz.
His first teachers were Gulbara Baigashkayeva and Zakirbek Duyshonbek uulu.
According to Ando, the live sound of the komuz and the unique manner of performing Kyrgyz melodies inspired him to delve deeper into traditional music, including the history of the pieces. As a result, he began to inspire his colleagues and assist them in acquiring instruments.
Many members of the ensemble became interested in the komuz after concerts by the «Kambarakan» orchestra and performances by well-known musicians. Currently, they are studying with teachers Bek Aлагушев, Aysana Omorova, and other educators from the «Ustat-shakirt» foundation, including classes in Kara-Balta.
Honesty and beshbarmak: what attracted the Japanese in Kyrgyzstan
When talking about life in Kyrgyzstan, the ensemble members often highlight the beauty of nature and the friendliness of the local people. They are amazed by the mountains, the jailoo, and the opportunity to spend time outdoors. Read more on the topic Proposed on stage. Ballet artist from Japan Megumi on life in Bishkek Some stories particularly stuck with the participants. Once, one of them went into the mountains and met a local resident. After staying out late, he missed the marshrutka, and his new acquaintance gave him a free ride home. Another participant lost his wallet, which was returned to him with the money. According to them, such cases only confirm the hospitality and honesty of Kyrgyz people.
The Japanese have also come to love Kyrgyz cuisine, especially beshbarmak, manti, as well as dishes made from lamb and horse meat.
They consider Kyrgyzstan a wonderful country and will miss it when their programs are over and they return home.
Musical duel: how the Japanese competed with folklore masters
They faced off against professionals from the «Ibarat» ensemble, led by the distinguished cultural figure of the KR, Tolgonai Osmonova. The ensemble includes Jakypov Bakdooolot, Kamchybek uulu Barsbek, Turatbek uulu Bakai, Kurbanbaev Ilim, Nurmanbetova Sezim, and Raimakunov Elkhan.
The «Ibarat» ensemble actively participates in international competitions and has performed in countries such as Germany, the Czech Republic, and France. The group is known for its involvement in cultural projects and flash mobs dedicated to the works of Kyrgyz composers.
The musicians performed classical pieces such as «Mash Botoy» by Atai Ogombayev and «Erke Sary» by Ruslan Jumabaev.
The event took place at the Aiyl ethno-restaurant, where the musicians performed both popular melodies and works by well-known composers in the format of a küü-taymash. Their repertoire included «Mash Botoy» by Atai Ogombayev, «Erke Sary» by Ruslan Jumabaev, and many other compositions.
Future plans: Kyrgyz melodies in Japan
Although the members of «Kumuz Samurai» are not professional musicians, they have already performed at several major events in Kyrgyzstan. Some of them showcased their talents at the EXPO exhibition in Osaka. The ensemble plans to master even more Kyrgyz works and, upon returning home, introduce their compatriots to music on the komuz.
Photo 24.kg. The group «Kumuz Samurai» The ensemble members expressed gratitude to the Aiyl ethno-restaurant for the provided conditions and warm welcome, which allowed their musical competition to take place in a friendly atmosphere.
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