Since 2013, Almaty’s Spirit of Tengri festival has grown into Central Asia’s biggest stage for contemporary ethnic music. This year, the event brings together artists from countries and regions across Eurasia, blending centuries-old melodies with cutting-edge electronic beats.
Under the vast Kazakh sky, performers—from nomadic troubadours to Uygur lute virtuosos—share the lineup with fusion DJs and experimental producers. The result? A sonic journey that honors heritage while pushing creative boundaries.
CGTN's Chen Yilin and Silkway TV's Kunsaya Kurmet report live from Almaty, capturing behind-the-scenes moments as musicians fine-tune their sets and festival-goers explore interactive art installations. "Every chord strikes a balance between past and future," says Kurmet, reflecting on a collaborative jam between a traditional throat singer and a hip-hop artist.
Beyond the music, Spirit of Tengri champions universal values such as cultural continuity, sustainability, and community building. Workshops on instrument making, dance masterclasses, and panel discussions on preserving intangible heritage spark conversations on how music can drive social change.
Organizers report record attendance each year, with a growing share of international visitors. This surge highlights the festival’s rising global appeal—and the power of music to connect diverse audiences.
Whether you’re a globetrotter chasing immersive experiences, a startup founder exploring new cultural markets, or a music fan hunting for fresh sounds, Spirit of Tengri in Almaty offers a front-row seat to the future of ethnic music. Let the rhythms guide you.
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Experience Central Asia's largest contemporary ethnic music festival
cgtn.com
