“Sirdaryo navolari” ensemble plays performances in Moscow

July 20, 2011

On July 20, the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Russia hosted a presentation of Uzbek songs and dance. Organized by the Embassy and the Fund Forum, the event was an opportunity for the representatives of Russian business community, public organizations, ministries, the Duma, heads of diplomatic missions and journalists to get a taste of Uzbek culture.

“Sirdaryo navolari” (Melodies of Syrdarya) folk and ethnographic ensemble features prominent performers of folk dance and songs, who have drawn accolades and won prizes at major international festivals and competitions. At the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Moscow they performed 15 unique numbers steeped in Uzbek history, culture and tradition.

The performance in Moscow kicked off the team’s international tour of European cities, including Paris, Madrid, Rome, Berlin, London and Geneva.

After the music performances the guests shared their impressions.

Polad Bulbuloglu, Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Russia:

“Today we had the opportunity to attend a very colorful and exciting concert by Uzbek musicians. Now, this music is very close to me because our nations, our cultures and songs have so much in common. We are brotherly nations and today in the songs I heard national motifs which are so similar to Azerbaijani motifs.”

Margaret Twomey, Ambassador of Australia to Russia:

“This exciting and memorable event has made a deep impression on me. I just can’t the words to describe my emotions and impressions. I would like to note the incredible atmosphere that the event brought to the Embassy. And of course this sort of events contribute to stronger friendly ties between nations. I felt that all those who attended were energized and danced along with the musicians. Uzbek folk dance and music is a reflection of humanism through high arts.”

Pilar Bonet, Spanish newspaper El País correspondent in Moscow:

“The concert and the musicians’ performances were amazing. I was captivated and I will certainly leave with lasting impressions. This has been a completely new look at Uzbekistan, a country with a rich history and a multifaceted cultural legacy. I was particularly impressed by the performers of folk dance and songs. As a Spanish woman, I was curious to see if Uzbek and Spanish folk dance and music had anything in common. I listened to the Uzbek melodies and watched the dances with rapt attention, and I realized how unique Uzbek culture is. I think your country has beautiful arts, wonderful crafts, delicious cuisine and thrilling architecture, and all this wealth is due to a nation that has worked hard to retain this legacy throughout centuries. But at the same time I think all this is modern as well.”