Monument to Musicians in Kazakhstan -
Walk Along the Pedestrian Streets of Almaty -
The Zhambyl Zhabayev Bust is one of the most famous and respected monuments to the great Kazakh improviser, poet, and musician of the Kazakh SSR. It is located in the Abai Opera and Ballet Theater Park in central Almaty. The Zhambyl bust is a sculpture of the akyn, depicting him from the shoulders up, meticulously crafted with his facial features and distinctive national appearance. The poet's gaze is directed into the distance, as if continuing his improvisations addressed to the people. The sculpture emphasizes Zhambyl's grandeur, serenity, and wisdom, as well as his closeness to ordinary people. The monument is located in a well-maintained part of the city, in a quiet, green area where residents and visitors can stop to honor the akyn's memory.
The monument's installation is a sign of gratitude to the great singer of the steppe, whose works preserved the spirit of the people and have endured through the decades, remaining relevant today. Next to the monument is the famous "Nedelka" fountain (Week), lined with benches where you can stroll, rest, and have a good time. If you're staying at ahotel "Almaty", the bust of Dzhambul Dzhabayev will be directly across the street from you. Nearby is the pedestrian Panfilov Street, along which you can stroll to the lower part of the city, for example, to Astana Square. The Abai Kazakh National Opera and Ballet Theatre is also nearby.
Second monument to Dzhambul Dzhabayev is located on Dostyk Avenue. Here, the poet is depicted in a traditional seated pose, holding a dombra in his left hand, his gaze directed into the distance, his right hand resting on his right knee. Zhambyl Zhabayev is dressed in traditional Kazakh clothing and a hat. There is also a fountain and a small pool near the monument.
How to get there and visit -
The bust monument to Zhambyl Zhabayev is located on Kabanbay Batyr Street, corner of Baiseitovaya Street, in the park next to the Abay Opera and Ballet Theater, Almalinsky District, Almaty, Republic of Kazakhstan.
GPS coordinates: 43°14'57"N 76°56'40"E
Zhambyl Zhabayev - symbol of folk art
Zhambyl Zhabayev (1846–1945) lived almost a century, and his life reflected an entire era. He witnessed colossal changes, from pre-revolutionary times to the mid-20th century. Zhambyl became famous as a master of aitys – poetic improvisations in the oral tradition, in which he explored themes of honor, justice, friendship, and love for his native land. He was a true voice of the people, celebrating the life of the Kazakh steppe and the heroism of ordinary people, and expressing the hopes and dreams of his people in difficult times. Zhambyl received wide recognition not only in Kazakhstan but also abroad—his poems have been translated into many languages and have become part of the world cultural heritage.
The bust of Zhambyl in Almaty is more than just a sculpture; it is part of the city's cultural heritage. It reminds us of the power of oral folklore, the tradition of aitys, and respect for sages and guardians of national memory. The site of the monument has become a focal point for cultural events and gatherings dedicated to poetry and folk art. For residents and visitors of Almaty, the bust of Zhambyl Zhabayev is an opportunity to connect with history, honor the great akyn, and experience the spirit of Kazakh culture.
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