Central Asian Music Ensemble  

Saida Daukeyeva – Director

The Central Asian Music Ensemble is dedicated to the study and performance of music from a region at the crossroads of Eurasia, encompassing the post-Soviet states of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan. Established in Fall 2023, the ensemble currently comprises Kazakh and Kyrgyz plucked and bowed lutes, plucked zithers, end-blown flutes, clay ocarinas, jaw harps, frame drums, and other percussion instruments. Students learn the basic techniques of playing the instruments and singing in a variety of regional styles while exploring the history and cultural significance of music in nomadic and sedentary Central Asian societies through individual tutorials, group rehearsals, and engagement with visiting artists from Central Asia. In addition to playing traditional and contemporary repertoires from the region, students are encouraged to compose and improvise with ensemble instruments. Previous experience with string or wind instruments such as the guitar, violin, cello, or flute is desirable but not required. Students from diverse backgrounds are welcome to participate.

Interested students should contact the instructor to discuss their background and arrange an interview and audition. Please email Prof. Saida Daukeyeva (sdaukeyeva@wesleyan.edu) if you have any questions.

Click here to read an article about the Central Asian Music Ensemble. 

Click here to visit WesMaps and learn more about the course.

Click here to visit the Central Asian Music Ensemble website.