Mukhammedali started attending this school in 2021 when he was only 9 years old, and he is now on his way to graduating with honors.
Turmush correspondent spoke with Mukhammedali and learned about his passion for the komuz, his achievements, and his future plans.
— How did you start playing the komuz?
— My interest in this instrument began in childhood when I listened to my father play the komuz. It was very captivating, and soon I joined the music school where I started learning notes. I also tried to replicate the traditional melodies that my dad performed, and over time, music completely captivated me.
— How many pieces do you know on the komuz?
— At the moment, I know more than 30 melodies. Additionally, for the past five years, I have been learning to play the kyl kyak — a two-stringed bowed instrument, about 70 cm long. I have achieved good results in this area as well, performing classical pieces from sheet music.
— What are your achievements?
— Last year, I participated in a competition in the Toguz-Toro district and took 2nd place. I also managed to win 1st place in an international online competition for playing the komuz, which included musicians from Europe, Central Asia, and other countries.
— What grade are you in at your regular school?
— I am in the 7th grade at the secondary school named after Karybek uulu Akmataaly. In the music school, I am taught by Nurzat Sydykova, and the deputy director is Zaripa Tolobaeva.
— What are your goals for the future?
— I have many plans. I want to master the Arabic language and receive an education in this field. However, I do not intend to stop my music studies — I will continue to play the komuz alongside. I dream of becoming a famous komuz player and combining my studies with performing for guests and at home.
— Who supports your creative endeavors?
— My parents play a key role in my development. They always pay attention to me, buy stage costumes, and even a komuz. If I plan to participate in competitions, they create all the necessary conditions and support me, assuring me that if I play well, I can win a prize.
— What is special to you about the komuz?
— The komuz is a unique and valuable instrument of our country. I play it to preserve its sound and ensure it does not get lost among other musical instruments. I love its sound, and I believe that only on the komuz can one achieve such virtuosity using various playing techniques.
