On September 24, 2025, UNESCO Headquarters in Paris hosted a festive concert “Ğasyr Äuenderi: Tribute to Tlendiyev”, dedicated to the centenary of the outstanding Kazakh composer, conductor, and kuishi Nurgisa Tlendiyev.

The centennial of this prominent cultural figure is a significant event not only for Kazakhstan but also for the entire world. UNESCO included this anniversary in the list of commemorative dates observed at the international level.

The event was attended by the Minister of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Aida Balayeva, along with representatives of the diplomatic corps and the creative community.

“For us, it is a great honor to present Kazakh traditional music here, in the very heart of Paris, at UNESCO Headquarters. We deeply appreciate the support of this esteemed organization, which has recognized the centenary of Nurgisa Tlendiyev as a date of international importance. The memory of this outstanding composer and conductor is not only our national pride but also part of the shared cultural heritage of all humanity,” Aida Balayeva emphasized in her welcoming remarks.

The main goal of the event was to promote the diversity of national cultural heritage, centuries-old traditions, and the culture of the Kazakh people.

The program featured the composer’s most renowned works performed by the Otyrar Sazy Orchestra, led by its artistic director and conductor, his daughter Dinzukhra Tlendiyeva. The evening also showcased performances by celebrated Kazakhstani artists, including Svetlana Aitbayeva, Alisher Karimov, Farkhat Kubiyev, Gauhar Zhumagulova, Askar Mukiyat, Abai Koishybayev, Rasul Zharmagambetov, Nurgalym Amanbai, Ayagoz Khairullina, and Zhuldyz Baizhuma.

The creative legacy of Nurgisa Tlendiyev has become an integral part of Kazakhstan’s cultural heritage. He composed more than 500 musical works, created music for over 50 theatrical productions, and scored more than 20 films.

Nurgisa Tlendiyev served as the chief conductor of the Abai Kazakh State Academic Opera and Ballet Theater and the Kurmangazy Academic Orchestra of Folk Instruments, and later became the artistic director of the folklore and ethnographic orchestra Otyrar Sazy, which he founded.

 

Press Service of the Ministry of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan