The living soul of music in Kazakhstan -
Sights of Almaty city -
The Zhambyl Kazakh State Philharmonic is one of the oldest and most respected cultural institutions in Kazakhstan, a symbol of the country's musical tradition and spiritual heritage. Located in the heart of Almaty, it is not only the architectural jewel of the city, but also an important center of attraction for all those who love art, live music and the atmosphere of creativity.
The Philharmonic Hall, opened in 1935, is named after the outstanding akyn and folk singer Zhambyl Zhabayev, a symbol of folk wisdom, inspiration and unity of the Kazakh people. Since its foundation, live music has been played here, with performances by the best performers, composers and orchestras that shaped the musical culture of independent Kazakhstan.
The Philharmonic has become the home of the State Academic Symphony Orchestra, the Kurmangaza Orchestra of Folk Instruments, the State Choir and many other renowned ensembles. Every concert here turns into a real celebration of sound, where classical, folk and modern music merge in harmony.
History
The history of the Philharmonic Society is inextricably linked with the development of musical art in Kazakhstan. Its opening in 1935 became the most important event in the cultural life of the young republic. It was here that the works of Kazakhstani composers Akhmet Zhubanov, Latyf Khamidi, and Evgeny Brusilovsky were performed for the first time.
Over the years, the Philharmonic has become a place where legends are born: Dmitry Shostakovich, Svyatoslav Richter, Bella Rudenko, Rosa Dzhamanova and other outstanding musicians have performed on its stage. During the Soviet period, the Philharmonic was the center of musical life throughout Kazakhstan, and after independence it became an important platform for international cooperation and cultural exchange.
The philharmonic received the name Zhambyl in 1946 as a sign of respect for the work of Akyn, whose songs and improvisations inspired the people during the years of war and peace.
Architecture and interior
The building of the Kazakh State Philharmonic is an outstanding example of Soviet modernist architecture with elements of the national style. It was built in 1941 according to the project of the famous architect Gerasimov and immediately became one of the architectural dominants of Almaty.
The facade is decorated with graceful arches, columns and decorative moldings, and the interior impresses with solemnity and warmth. The main concert hall is designed for more than a thousand spectators and is famous for its unique acoustics, one of the best in the country. Here, each sound sounds clean and voluminous, allowing the listener to literally immerse themselves in the music.
Light marble, gilded ornaments and crystal chandeliers make a special impression on the hall, giving it a feeling of celebration.
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How to get there and visit
The Kazakh State Philharmonic named after Zhambyl is located in the center of Almaty at 21 Tole-Bi Street, corner of Kaldayakov Street, next to the park named after 28 Panfilov Guards and the Cathedral of the Ascension of the Lord, Medeu district, Republic of Kazakhstan.
GPS coordinates: 43°15'22"N 76°57'28"E
The Zhambyl Philharmonic has good transport accessibility. There are several buses running directly to it № 37, 120, 201, 205, 206, 224, Almaly and Zhibek Zholy metro stations are located a couple of kilometers away. For those who prefer comfort, it is possible to take a taxi or their own car.
Working hours: daily from 10.00 to 19.00 (break from 13.00 to 14.00)
Contacts: +7 727 291 77 23; +7 727 291 81 57
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Legend
A beautiful urban legend is associated with the Philharmonic. It is said that in the silence after the last chord, when the hall freezes, you can hear a slight echo of dombra – as if Zhambyl himself, the great akyn, thanks the musicians for the fact that his spirit still lives in their art.
Locals believe that if you touch the bas-relief of Zhambyl at the entrance before the concert and mentally make a wish related to inspiration or creativity, it will certainly come true. After all, the Philharmonic is a place where music creates a miracle and fills the soul with light.
A touch of harmony
Visiting the Kazakh State Philharmonic named after Zhambyl is not just a cultural event, it is a journey into the heart of Kazakh music. Here, the past meets the present, folk motifs merge with classics, and each chord sounds like a declaration of love to the native land.
The Philharmonic is a place where inspiration lives. Here you feel that art is really capable of uniting people, uplifting the spirit and giving hope. For a tourist, this is not just a concert hall, but one of those corners of Almaty where you can truly feel the soul of Kazakhstan.
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