Center for Revival of Abai's Heritage: Kentau Nazarbek National Instrument Orchestra Class Opens

A new stage in the spiritual and musical life has begun at Shakarim University. The educational institution has solemnly opened the “National Instrumental Orchestra Class named after Kentau Nazarbek.” This class, aimed at cultural and spiritual development, has become a promising project that strengthens musical traditions and encourages the creative pursuits of a new generation of artists.

Kentau Nazarbek is an Honored Worker of the Republic of Kazakhstan and a member of the Union of Composers of Kazakhstan. He is a student of composer Temirzhan Bazarbayev and a laureate of national and city competitions. He is the author of more than 200 Kazakh melodic songs, over 45 of which have been included in the “Golden Fund” of “Kazakh Radio.”

The ceremonial event opened with Abai’s song “Äsempaz bolma ärnege.” Performed by modern composer and Honored Worker of the country Kairat Arkashuly, the piece made a special impression on the audience. The emotional performance of the song by Iliyas Sabyrbayev further enhanced its depth.

The song “Otan! Otan,” written by Kentau Nazarbek to the lyrical work of Mukagali Makatayev and performed by Sharypkhan Rysgül and Rakym Bagzhan, united the hall with a shared spirit. The piece awakened a sense of patriotism in the hearts of the listeners.

Special guests took part in the red ribbon-cutting ceremony: public figure and former Minister of Justice Irak Elekeev, and professor and distinguished educator Zeynolla Tokayev. The impressive melody performed by the national instruments ensemble “Shyngystau” added a unique color to the event.

The importance of opening a new creative center was especially emphasized by the university leadership and honorary guests. Rector Duman Orynbekov spoke about future plans and the role of the classroom in preparing a new generation of musicians. Irak Elekeev highlighted how culture and art contribute to the spiritual development of young people.

Rector Duman Orynbekov elaborated on the significance of the new class in training young musicians, while Irak Elekeev stressed the importance of culture and art in shaping the spiritual growth of youth.

The culmination of the ceremonial evening was the premiere of the song “Abai Ösieti,” set to Abai’s verses and performed by Honored Worker of Kazakhstan Nurbolat Arzamas. The piece showcased a modern reinterpretation of the great poet’s legacy.

The initiator of the classroom’s opening, Kentau Nazarbek, emphasized in his speech that supporting youth creativity is a key mechanism for developing national culture.

The new classroom is not merely an educational space but a spiritual center that will nurture artists capable of bringing fame to the country on the world stage. It is a creative environment designed to preserve and advance traditional music, as well as to discover new talents. Such noble initiatives instill confidence in the bright future of Kazakh music.