International Festival Review: Ustatshakirt Ensemble

Ustatshakirt Ensemble is a group of musicians reviving traditional Kyrgyzstan music with the Ustatshakirt Centre and the support of the Aga Khan Music Programme. Not only does the Centre inspire a new generation of musicians but it also teaches many students how to make traditional instruments including the kyl kiyak (two-stringed fiddle), the temir komuz (jaw harp) and the sybyzgy (end-blown flute). The musicians and host informed the crowd that as traditionally nomadic people, ensembles were not common except for some instances before battles. So, witnessing this group play songs often performed by one musician and weave it into a cultural narrative was a privilege. The temir komuz was a particular favourite to listen to with their deep raspy tones, especially when they hit upbeat notes that sounded like it could be played on a pop radio. The vocalist’s instrument was no less impressive as sang in different tones and octaves, chanting excepts from the Epic of Manas in Kyrgyz to their captivated audience.