The 2nd International maqam art conference opens in Zomin

On June 27, the 2nd International maqam art conference was solemnly opened in the Zomin district of the Jizzakh region. This event was reported by the President's press service.

The conference was organized on the initiative of the head of state, with the first festival held in Shahrisabz in 2018. The art convention, which was postponed due to the pandemic, has returned this year with renewed spirit and enthusiasm.

At the opening ceremony, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev delivered a speech in which he highlighted the history and significance of maqam art.

"Maqam art, a symbol of our ancient history, rich culture, and ancient values, occupies an important place in our spiritual life with its deep philosophical roots, unique artistic style, and rich creative traditions. Maqam is also highly valuable to us as a rare art form that glorifies universal feelings through grand performances," stated President Mirziyoyev.

The art of maqam experienced rapid development and reached its peak during the First and Second Renaissance in the Muslim East. Abu Nasr Farabi, in his "Big Book of Music," meticulously arranged the theoretical and practical aspects of melodies using the oud. Renowned scholars such as Abu Rayhan Beruni, Ibn Sina, Alisher Navoi, and Zahiriddin Muhammad Babur created unique musical works and made incomparable contributions to the evolution of maqam art.

In the 20th century, art historians like Abdurauf Fitrat, Yunus Rajabi, Hajikhan Boltayev, Komiljon Otaniyozov, Turgun Alimatov, Fattahkhan Mamadaliyev, and other hafiz continued these traditions.

President Mirziyoyev noted the significant contribution of the esteemed statesman Sharaf Rashidov in preserving maqam art. Despite challenging times, foundational work was done for the scientific study and international promotion of maqam art at the Tashkent State Conservatory. A maqom ensemble was established, the timeless masterpieces of "Shashmaqom" were recorded, and a comprehensive six-volume book was published.

Classical maqam music has been included in UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Today, maqam is studied across the country, from elementary education to academic levels. A Maqom Center is being established in Tashkent. To support composers, singers, and musicians in this field, national competitions are organized.

On behalf of the entire Uzbek nation, the President expressed sincere gratitude to the artists who have dedicated their lives to this honorable and significant work.

"This festival is, without a doubt, a grand celebration for all people of creativity united under the banner of virtue and humanism, who love art with all their being. Let maqam be an inexhaustible source of strength and inspiration for the spirit of music lovers worldwide," said the President.

Simona Mikulescu, President of the 42nd session of the UNESCO General Conference, and Salim Muhammad al-Malik, Director General of ISESCO, also spoke at the ceremony, welcoming participants and guests.

Additionally, the conference was attended by TURKSOY Secretary General Sultan Rayev, Turkish Culture and Heritage Foundation President Aktoti Raimkulova, the Turkic States Parliamentary Assembly Secretary General Mehmet Sureyya Er, Commonwealth of Independent States Deputy Secretary General Nurlan Seytimov, Chief Advisor to the President of Turkey Yalcin Topcu, Advisor to the President of Estonia Malik Otarbayev, Assistant to the President of Tajikistan for Social Development, Culture, and Public Relations Abdulla Rahmonzoda, Minister of Culture, Information, Sports, and Youth Policy of Kyrgyzstan Oltinbek Maksutov, and Minister of Culture of Azerbaijan Adil Gabil son Karimli. In total, about 400 guests from more than 80 countries across Asia, Europe, North and South America, and Africa are participating in the festival.

The event continued with a concert of classical songs.

The Zominsoy complex, where the festival is being held, is festively decorated. Exhibitions showcasing the rich culture and exquisite practical art of the Uzbek people have been organized across a wide area. Together with foreign guests, the head of state viewed these craft exhibitions and performances by folk groups.

The conference will continue until June 30. At the conclusion, winners in the categories of "Best Ensemble," "Best Solo Instrumentalist," and "Best Solo Singer" will be announced. Additionally, an international conference and roundtable discussions will be held on the theoretical and practical foundations of maqam art.