[INTERVIEW] Harmonizing Cultures: A Kazakh Enthusiast’s Journey into the Melodies of Korean Folk Songs
2024-09-09The fusion of cultures, the harmonies of tradition, the enchanting allure of Korean folk songs create an in-depth connection that transcends borders and resonates deeply with Yeltayev Aryngazy, a Kazakh Korean enthusiast, beckoning him on a journey of music exploration and cultural appreciation. This is an interview to unravel the captivating narrative of a cross-cultural music enthusiast. Yeltayev Aryngazy is a Kazakhstan citizen that has optimum love and interest for the Korean culture, Aryngazy interest for the Korean culture is not just limited to the popular k-drama and k-pop, but is interest shone brighter as he explores a rare aspect of the Korean culture, Korean folk songs. Aryngazy made is interest for Korean folk songs known across borders as he constantly participate in the Talk Talk Korea competition with his exceptional music category of Korean folk song and placing second position in the 2023 Talk Talk Korea contest. This interview was conducted via electronic communication medium.
Aryngazy a Kazakhstan boy proudly displaying the Korean National Flag. Photo: Aryngazy.
What sparked your initial interest in Korean folk songs and how has this interest evolved over time?
The song ‘Onara’ from the TV series ‘Jewel in the Palace’ opened my interest in Korean folk songs, folk songs are beautiful, rhythmic and rich in history. For instance, one of the Korean folk songs ‘Arirang’ is so beautiful and melodic. During the 2022 Korean Ethnocultural Center event, I told the chairman that I will love to sing a special song at the event and I was granted the honor to take the stage. I sang ‘Arirang’ for the first time at the event and ever since, I started singing Korean folk songs at various events in my country, Kazakhstan.
A picture of Aryngazy performing Korean folk song at the Korean Ethnocultural Center in Kazakhstan. Photo: Aryngazy.
Can you tell us about a specific Korean folk song that holds a special place in your heart and what about it resonates with you?
The song ‘Onara’ is a special song to me because with this song I can show my unique voice and this song can show the delicate tone of folk song. In addition, the song has a wonderful quality, when listening to this song, the rich cultural history of Korea comes to my mind and leads to a wonderful historical journey.
In what ways do you think your cultural background as a Kazakh influences your interpretation and appreciation of Korean folk music?
Korean folk songs are sung with a special vibration of the voice while Kazakh folk songs are often sun with maximum voice output. The similarity of the folk songs of the two peoples requires a special voice because not everyone can sing folk songs or at least perform folk songs on stage. I auditioned in front of ethnic Koreans to sing Korean folk song on stage and they all liked my voice.
Aryngazy volunteer time at the Korean Ethnocultural Center event in Kazakhstan alongside Mrs. Tyu Bela, the chairperson of the KEC. Photo: Aryngazy.
How do you see the significance of preserving and sharing traditional Korean folk songs in today’s digital age and globalized world?
It is very important not to forget folk songs, folk songs are part of culture. If the culture is forgotten, the identity of the people will also be lost. Therefore, as part of the culture, Korean folk songs should be widely appreciated, respected and promoted. I consider it a special thing that I am promoting Korean folk songs, because the culture of another country aroused my interest and I think Korean folk songs are part of my future.
Aryngazy with Chairwoman of the Korean Ethnocultural Center Mrs. Tyu Bela at the Chuseok celebration in Kazakhstan. Photo: Aryngazy.
How do you believe Korean folk songs contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage and identity, both in Korea and among enthusiasts like yourself in Kazakhstan?
Korean folk songs are part of a unique culture and have a special place among cultural heritage. And the preservation of these folk songs, respect for culture, I would like to say that Song So-Hee, a famous folk singer in Korea. He devoted his life to folk songs since childhood and of course, there are many folk singers who inspires me and other folk songs enthusiast both in Korea and in Kazakhstan.
Aryngazy dressed in the beautiful Korean traditional cloth ‘Hanbok’. Photo: Aryngazy.
Have you had the opportunity to perform or share Korean folk songs with others in your community, and if so, what was the personal experience and what has the response been like?
I sang with an ethnic Korean who lives in my city, we sang at the Chuseok ceremony that was held in my city. It was a memorable performance and everyone loved it. I would love to sing more Korean folk songs with more Korea citizens and my main goal is to sing a duet with the famous Korean folk song singer Song So-Hee.
Aryngazy performing a song from K-drama ‘The Rebel’ titled ‘If Spring Comes’ while playing a Korean national instrument called ‘Janggu’ during Chuseok celebration in Kazakhstan. Photo: Aryngazy.
What do you find the most captivating about melodies, lyrics and storytelling in Korean folk songs compared to other genres of music you enjoy?
I can sing song of any genre, but when I sing Korean folk songs, my unique voice is revealed. Korean folk songs as a really captivating melodies and storytelling aura that can’t be compared to other music genre. Singing Korean folk songs is my forte and in the future, I will like to have my voice heard on a professional level.
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