Kazakh Museum of Folk Musical Instruments

The Kazakh Museum of Folk Musical Instruments (Muzej Narodnych Muzykalnych lnstrumentov Kazachstana, variously translated) is a musical instrument museum located in Almaty, Kazakhstan. Located in Panfilov Park, the wooden building was erected in 1908, simultaneously with Ascension Cathedral. During the period, the military leadership of the Turkestan governor-generalship once met here for ceremonies and state receptions. Later after the establishment of the Soviet Union, the building was used as the House of Officials until 1980 which after the museum based on national instruments was opened. The museum was named after Great Kazakh musician of 19-20th centuries Ykylas, who promoted the purity of folk culture and preservation of various national instruments. Today, there are more than 1000 items of instruments in collection of the museum, which are divided on 60 types of Kazakh national musical instruments. The collection also includes instruments, which were owned by famous singers-improvisers and composers. The most ancient exhibits are dated back to the 17th century. From the outside the building is made of wood and resembles the traditional Russian building. Inside the decoration corresponds to classic Kazakh national patterns. And in front of the building the sculpture of Kazakh bow instrument, Narkobyz is erected. Besides the view of all instruments, the visitors can listen to the sounding of these instruments in performance of folk ensemble Sazgen.