From October 24 to 27, 2025, the 10th International Congress and Festival of Jew's Harp Music (IJHC/F) took place in Akane, Japan, located on Hokkaido. This event brought together the best folk musicians and researchers from over 50 countries to showcase their cultural heritage.
The instrument known as the khööri or Jew's harp is a small but expressive musical instrument typically made of metal or bamboo that produces a characteristic "bong" sound when played. The IJHC/F festival has been held ten times in countries where the Jew's harp holds significant cultural importance, and this year it was held in Japan.
Musicians, masters, and researchers from various corners of Asia, Europe, and other regions performed at the festival.
Nine representatives from the Mongolian Ethnic Jew's Harp Association, showcasing their unique melodies and traditional playing techniques, became the pride of Mongolia at this festival. Their performances were highly praised by both the organizers and international colleagues, reflecting the spirit of Mongolian nature and culture.
During the festival, it was confirmed that the next, 11th IJHC/F will take place in Kyrgyzstan, followed by the 12th in Mongolia, which will be a significant event for the Mongolian music community.
It is also worth noting that Narandelger Byambaa, president of the Mongolian Ethnic Jew's Harp Association and cultural ambassador of Mongolia, became a member of the Board of Directors of the International Jew's Harp Association, further confirming Mongolia's significance on the international folk music scene.
Additionally, the Mongolian Ethnic Jew's Harp Association announced the second Jew's harp festival, scheduled for November 11, 2025.
List of participants by countries and regions:
Asia
Republic of India, Republic of Indonesia, Kingdom of Cambodia, Kyrgyz Republic, People's Republic of China, Taiwan, Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, Republic of the Philippines, Malaysia, Mongolia, and Japan
Europe
Italian Republic, Republic of Estonia, Kingdom of the Netherlands, Republic of Austria, Switzerland, Federal Republic of Germany, Kingdom of Norway, Hungary, Republic of Finland, Republic of Lithuania, Romania, and Russian Federation
America
United States of America, Canada, Republic of Chile, and Federative Republic of Brazil.
Tatar S.Maidar
source: MiddleAsianNews
