Kazakh traditional art of Dombra Kuy performed in Xinjiang's Narat grassland

Living in the Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, the Kazakh is one of the 56 minority nationalities in China. Renowned for their singing and dancing, the Kazakh people have integrated Dombra art into their history and culture.

Dombra is pear-shaped, long-necked, two-stringed, plucked musical instrument. And the he music of Dombra is called“Dombra Kuiyi”. Depending on the musical structure and performing technique, it is divided into “Tuokebie kuiyi” (jerk and blow music) and “Qie’ertebie kuiyi” (pizz String music).

The Kazakh Dombra Art has been listed as a intangible cultural heritage of China. The music aims to connect people to their historic roots and traditions through classical and improvised pieces that engage the audience at a spiritual and emotional level.