In Kyrgyzstan, a group of Japanese individuals who came for study and work formed a unique collective called «Kumuz Samurai». In their free time, the team members actively study the Kyrgyz language and the national musical instrument — the kumuz.
On the eve of the New Year celebration, they organized a musical competition known as kүү-taymash, with the professional ensemble «Ibarat».
The composition of the “Japanese” ensemble: office, school, and kumuz
The members of «Kumuz Samurai» have been in Kyrgyzstan for periods ranging from several months to three years.
Playing the kumuz has become not just a hobby for them, but a path to a deeper understanding of the culture of their host country. Some musicians have been playing the instrument for three years, while, for example, Tamai Hidekazu started just a month ago.
The composition of the group is constantly changing: when one of the members returns to Japan, a new eager participant takes their place. Thus, the ensemble continues its activities and delights the audience.
How a classical musician discovered kүү (kyui)
Ando Takehiro, one of the first participants interested in the kumuz, played the violin in an orchestra before arriving in Bishkek in 2022, although he was not a professional musician. Here, he decided to try his hand at a new string instrument and began studying the kumuz.
His first teachers were Gulbara Baigashkaeva and Zakirbek Duyshonbek uulu.
Ando notes that the live sound of the kumuz and the unique manner of performing Kyrgyz melodies inspired him to delve deeper into traditional music, including the history of the pieces. As a result, he began to motivate other participants and help them acquire instruments.
Some participants started playing the kumuz after being inspired by concerts of the «Kambarakan» orchestra and performances by famous musicians. They are currently studying with teachers such as Bek Alagushев and Aisana Omorova, as well as educators from the «Ustat-shakirt» foundation, including in Kara-Balta.
What attracted the Japanese to Kyrgyzstan: beshbarmak and local honesty
Speaking about their life in Kyrgyzstan, the ensemble members emphasize the beauty of nature and the friendliness of the local people. They are especially impressed by the mountains, the jailoo, and the opportunity to spend time outdoors.
Some stories have particularly stuck with them. One participant, finding himself in the mountains, met a local resident who gave him a free ride home when he missed the minibus. Another musician lost his wallet, which was returned to him with the money intact. Such incidents reinforced their impression of the hospitality and honesty of the Kyrgyz people.
The Japanese also highly appreciate Kyrgyz cuisine, especially beshbarmak, manti, and dishes made from lamb and horse meat.
According to them, Kyrgyzstan is a magnificent country that they will miss when they return home.
Musical duel: rivalry with folklore masters
The rivals of «Kumuz Samurai» were professional musicians from the «Ibarat» ensemble, led by Tolgonai Osmonova, an honored cultural worker of the Kyrgyz Republic. This group features well-known performers such as Zhakypov Bakdoolot, Kamchybek uulu Barsbek, Turatbek uulu Bakai, Kurbanbaev Ilim, Nurmanbetova Sezim, and Raimakunov Elkhan.
The ensemble has participated in international competitions and performed in countries such as Germany, the Czech Republic, and France. It also actively engages in cultural projects and flash mobs dedicated to the works of Kyrgyz composers.
The musicians performed well-known pieces such as «Mash Botoy» by Atai Ogombayev and «Erke Sary» by Ruslan Jumabaev.
The meeting of the two ensembles took place at the Aiyl ethno-restaurant, where the musicians performed both folk melodies and works by famous authors, including «Mash Botoy» and «Erke Sary» in the format of kүү-taymash.
The future: Kyrgyz melodies in Japan
Although the members of «Kumuz Samurai» are not professional musicians, they have already performed at several major events in Kyrgyzstan. Some of them showcased their skills at the EXPO exhibition in Osaka. The musicians plan to master more Kyrgyz pieces and, upon returning home, introduce their compatriots to the kumuz.
The participants expressed gratitude to the Aiyl ethno-restaurant for the warm welcome and the provided space, which allowed the musical competition to take place in a friendly atmosphere.
