A remarkable evening unfolded on the stage of the Kazakh State Philharmonic named after Zhambyl in Almaty. The concert, organized by the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China, was dedicated to the 120th anniversary of Xian Xinghai - one of China’s greatest composers, remembered at home as a symbol of resilience, patriotism, and artistic brilliance.
Li Ren Ji/ Xinhua
More than a cultural celebration, the event highlighted the shared history, friendship, and spiritual ties between China and Kazakhstan, DKNews.kz reports.
A Warm Welcome
During the official opening, Consul General Jiang Wei addressed the audience with heartfelt words:
“Today we commemorate the 120th anniversary of Xian Xinghai, a composer whose works such as the Yellow River Cantata and On the Taihang Mountains have become national treasures. Yet Almaty holds a special place in his life. During the war, at a time of hardship, Kazakh musician Bakhyt Baikadamov reached out to support him, and together they created the symphonic poem Amangeldy. This work became a spiritual call to arms during the global antifascist struggle and remains a symbol of friendship between our peoples.”
Her words were met with warm applause. The story of friendship born in the most difficult of times touched many in the hall.
Shared Memory
The evening also honored another milestone - the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and in the global antifascist war.
Li Ren Ji/ Xinhua
“China and Kazakhstan fought side by side,” noted Jiang Wei. “The sacrifices of our peoples are not just a memory - they are our common spiritual heritage.”
Li Ren Ji/ Xinhua
To mark this legacy, China presented commemorative medals to honor two Kazakh heroes: Maikhan Arenov and Abdibek Nurmagambetov.
Li Ren Ji/ Xinhua
Their descendants, Murat Arenov and Maksat Nurmagambetov, came on stage to receive the medals. It was one of the most emotional moments of the evening.
Li Ren Ji/ Xinhua
Looking Ahead
Jiang Wei also turned her attention to the present and the future. She highlighted President Xi Jinping’s Global Governance Initiative, stressing the importance of multilateral cooperation, respect for international law, and equal dialogue among nations.
Li Ren Ji/ Xinhua
Kazakhstan’s role in these processes, she underlined, is of particular significance.
Li Ren Ji/ Xinhua
When Music Speaks Louder Than Words
The speeches gave way to music.
Li Ren Ji/ Xinhua
The State Academic Symphony Orchestra named after T. Abdrashev and the Baikadamov State Choir performed Xian Xinghai’s works, filling the hall with powerful emotions.
Li Ren Ji/ Xinhua
The music bridged the past and the present, embodying the spirit of unity and friendship.
The concert ended with long, heartfelt applause. Guests left the hall with the feeling that they had witnessed more than a performance - they had become part of a story that celebrates friendship, remembrance, and the shared future of China and Kazakhstan.
Li Ren Ji/ Xinhua
