Majestic Tunes of Dombra Echo Loudly on Kilimanjaro
Alibek Kaiyrbek Brings Kazakhstani Music to the World's Highest Peaks
Alibek Kaiyrbek, a talented dombra player, recently performed atop Africa's highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, marking another milestone in his ambitious project to share Kazakhstan's rich musical heritage at the summits of the world's highest peaks.
Last year, Kaiyrbek played the dombra's melodies at Europe's highest point, Mount Elbrus in the Caucasus. Now, with his sights set on Aconcagua, the highest mountain in South America, Kaiyrbek is planning an extraordinary expedition that blends cultural expression with mountaineering.
Despite the challenge of tuning the instrument in strong winds, the sound of the dombra remained pure and atmospheric on Kilimanjaro. Kaiyrbek performed Kurmangazy's legendary composition "Adai" at the summit, carrying the spirit of Kazakhstan to new heights.
Africa's unique nature and vibrant, cheerful people made Kaiyrbek's journey unforgettable. The Tanzanian people, especially the guides, porters, and carriers, left a deep impression on him with their energy, positivity, dedication, and sincerity. Some climbers and tourists started calling Kaiyrbek "samurai" because of his dombra case.
The journey to Kilimanjaro took approximately seven days. Along the way, Kaiyrbek gave small lectures and concerts at base camps, introducing people to the dombra's history and Kazakh culture. His performances inspired tourists and climbers to explore Kazakhstan.
Kaiyrbek's next goal is to conquer Aconcagua. To make this climb and performance possible, he is seeking funding and support, including financial backing for travel, climbing permits, safety equipment, and logistical arrangements. Sponsors or supporters will be contributing to a pioneering cultural and sporting endeavour that promotes Kazakhstani art on a global stage.
In an interview with The Astana Times, Kaiyrbek noted that the dombra's melodies resonated just as powerfully and emotionally on Kilimanjaro as they did on Elbrus. He believes his journey to share the story of Kazakhstan through the sounds of the dombra is worth the effort and cost.
If you or your organization are interested in supporting this inspiring expedition, reaching out directly to Kaiyrbek or his team through social media or cultural networks might be the best way to get involved. Your support will help bring this extraordinary vision to life!
Before attempting Aconcagua, Kaiyrbek plans acclimatization climbs on Lenin Peak, Mount Ararat, and Mount Damavand. The dombra player is determined to continue his journey, bringing the music of Kazakhstan to the world's highest peaks and promoting Kazakhstan beyond its borders.
As he embarks on a journey to conquer Aconcagua, the highest mountain in South America, Alibek Kaiyrbek aims to blend cultural expression with mountaineering, bringing music and entertainment to new heights and allowing Kazakhstani lifestyle to be appreciated globally. His upcoming travel will take him to Lenin Peak, Mount Ararat, and Mount Damavand for acclimatization before the main performance and climb on Aconcagua.