On 13 January 2026, Vienna once again proved that culture can speak louder than borders. As part of the Turkic Week in Vienna, the Gala Concert of Turkic Artists was held at the MuTh Concert and Theater Hall, bringing together music, tradition, and modern creativity from across the Turkic World, DKNews.kz reports.
The event attracted a distinguished and diverse audience. Representatives of international organizations based in Vienna, members of the diplomatic corps, Austrian officials, as well as heads of Turkic diaspora institutions and non-governmental organizations gathered in the concert hall. Their presence reflected not only diplomatic interest, but also a shared appreciation for culture as a universal language capable of connecting societies beyond politics and geography.
The evening opened with welcoming remarks by H.E. Ambassador Kubanychbek Omuraliev, Secretary General of the Organization of Turkic States, and H.E. Mirbek Mambetaliyev, Minister of Culture of the Kyrgyz Republic. In their addresses, both speakers emphasized the unique role of culture and the arts in preserving the common heritage of the Turkic World and in strengthening people-to-people ties.
They highlighted that cultural exchange remains one of the most effective ways to deepen mutual understanding and foster intercultural dialogue. Special attention was given to cultural diplomacy, which was described as a cornerstone of cooperation among Turkic States and an increasingly important tool in today’s international environment.
In his speech, Ambassador Omuraliev noted that culture and music have served as timeless bridges among peoples for centuries. He underlined that cultural initiatives carried out under the umbrella of the Organization of Turkic States help promote shared values, traditions, and the creative potential of the Turkic World on the global stage.
The concert program itself became a vivid illustration of these ideas. Traditional melodies, performances on folk instruments, contemporary interpretations, and carefully crafted stage productions created a rich and dynamic artistic experience. Artists from various Turkic States took the audience on a musical journey across an immense cultural landscape - from Central Asia to Anatolia and the Caucasus.
Folk ensembles, solo vocalists, and instrumentalists performing on traditional instruments were warmly received by the audience. Colorful national costumes, expressive choreography, and the seamless blend of classical heritage with modern elements created an immersive atmosphere in the hall. Throughout the evening, the performances were met with sustained applause, reflecting the strong emotional connection between the artists and the audience.
The gala concert concluded on an enthusiastic and uplifting note, leaving guests with a strong sense of shared cultural identity and collective pride. As one of the standout cultural events of the Turkic Week in Vienna, the concert reaffirmed that culture remains a powerful force for bringing societies closer together and enhancing the international visibility of the Turkic World.
