On May 21, the Akmola Regional Philharmonic named after Ukili Ybyrai hosted the concert “On the Waters of Ainakol” presented by the Ainakol Folklore Ensemble.

The artistic journey of the Ainakol Folklore Ensemble is deeply rooted in the traditions of Kazakh folk music and rich cultural heritage. For many years, the ensemble has enriched the artistic landscape of Kokshetau by preserving and promoting national musical traditions, introducing audiences to treasures of Kazakh culture passed down through generations. The ensemble’s name is inspired by the crystal-clear waters of Ainakol Lake in the picturesque Burabay region, symbolizing the purity and spiritual depth of Kazakh art.

Alongside traditional folk songs and instrumental pieces, the ensemble’s repertoire includes works by contemporary composers inspired by ethnic and folk traditions. By skillfully combining ancient musical heritage with modern artistic expression, the ensemble continues to demonstrate the vitality and relevance of Kazakhstan’s traditional culture.

During the concert, under the direction of Madiyar Abai, the ensemble presented a vibrant and diverse program rich in national character. The audience enjoyed performances of “Kulagher” by M. Berdigulov, “Dala Jyry” by K. Nukishev, “Kazakh Khandygy” by A. Anuar, “Kuzgi Sezim” by T. Zhakhin, the folk song “Nak-Nak”, “Samgau” by T. Shokenov, and “Ake Tolgauy” by A. Ensepov.

Particularly memorable were the collaborative performances of Dauletkerey’s “Kosalka” and A. Muzdakhanov’s “Tarkhan Baba” by the Ainakol Folklore Ensemble and the Gakku Dance Ensemble, which beautifully combined traditional music and choreography.

The Philharmonic’s distinguished vocalists also took part in the concert. Recipient of the “Eren Enbegi Ushin” Medal Elmira Toleubayeva delivered a heartfelt performance of E. Usenov’s “Meruert Monshak”. Recipient of the “Khalyk Algysy” Medal Zhanat Yesov performed the folk song “On Alty Kyz”, earning warm applause from the audience. Saida Sagdi captivated listeners with her rendition of the folk song “Agugai”, while Altynbek Bektemir impressed the audience with his interpretation of “Nak-Nak”.

Among the ensemble’s instrumentalists, Aizada Kemel performed Estai’s “Kusni-Korlan” with remarkable lyricism. Bauyrzhan Baltin presented his original composition “Dala Aueni”, Almas Omarov performed his own work “Saigulik”, and Sayat Babayev introduced the audience to “Nomad” by N. Sagnai.

Reviving the spirit of the past through the sounds of traditional Kazakh instruments and building a bridge between generations, the concert “On the Waters of Ainakol” became a vivid celebration of Kazakhstan’s cultural wealth and the enduring beauty of its traditional performing arts.