A special evening took place at the Embassy of Kazakhstan in Paris - the youth ensemble Almaty Youth Jazz Band led by Tagir Zaripov gave a concert. The event was dedicated to Kazakhstan’s Independence Day and the closing of the cultural season “Kazakhstan Autumn in France”, DKNews.kz reports.
“Salut, Paris!”: Abai in jazz and a dialogue of cultures
The ensemble presented a program titled “Salut, Paris!”. From the stage, listeners heard:
- songs by Abai Qunanbaiuly in jazz arrangements,
- original compositions by the musicians,
- classics of world jazz.
Kazakh musical tradition received a fresh, modern sound - and felt truly international.
Special guest - French composer François Jeanneau
The highlight of the evening was the participation of French composer François Jeanneau.
He:
- performed together with Almaty Youth Jazz Band,
- played several jazz pieces,
- presented works written specially for this Almaty ensemble.
It was more than a concert - it became a creative dialogue that produced new music.
Next step - an international jazz festival
The ensemble’s visit to France does not end there. The musicians will take part in the first International Jazz Festival in Beauvais, which will be held on December 12–13.
For the young performers, this means:
- a European stage,
- a new audience,
- a chance to present Kazakhstan to the world.
Why it matters
Such projects:
- strengthen Kazakhstan’s cultural image,
- support young talent,
- show real “soft power” through art.
Music is a language without borders - it is understood everywhere.
The Almaty Youth Jazz Band concert in Paris is not just another musical evening. It is a story about how young artists connect countries, cities and people - through jazz, freedom of improvisation and respect for their roots.
