By: Emily Kalashnikova
Emily Kalashnikova, an artist from Kazakhstan, has made her mark in New York and San Francisco. She is celebrated for spotlighting and elevating the musical legacies of diverse cultures. Known for her dynamic DJ sets, she masterfully blends energetic, vibrant house and techno with electronic beats and abstract compositions. Don’t miss the chance to experience her captivating performances in San Francisco’s clubs this season.
Before reading this article, listen to this track from the album called “Shaman Voices: A Journey in the Steppe”, by Kalmyk artist Okna Tsahan Zam.
You must feel it. The love, the pain, the freedom.
In the heart of Eurasia, nestled between the vast steppes and the Caspian Sea, lies Kalmykia, a place where music not only tells a story but also preserves the rich tapestry of a culture that has thrived against all odds. Amongst its most treasured musical expressions is Jangar, an epic saga that resonates with the spirit of the Kalmyk people. This article delves into the unique aspects of Kalmyk music, focusing on “Jangar”, oral historic epic, and other folk tales, illustrating why this heritage deserves more recognition and why it stands as a testament to the resilience and creativity of this small nation. The story is recited by singers called Jangarchi.
Kalmyk music is an amalgam of various genres of folklore including fairy tales, riddles, “epochal crimes of Soviet repression”, and notably, the heroic poetic narrative Jangar. These elements have undergone transformations over centuries, yet they remain largely understudied and underappreciated in modern scientific discourse. The work of I.I. Popova in cataloging these traditions offers a glimpse into their depth and diversity but also highlights how much remains unexplored. There is also a published work, the first English translation of “Jangar” by Saglar Bougdaeva. She truly revived the history by offering the heroic epic in the international language, making it accessible to the world.
Book can be found here!
Jangar holds a special place in Kalmyk cultural heritage. It’s more than just an epic tale; it’s a living legacy that encapsulates the ethos, values, and historical journey of the Kalmyk people. The narrative follows Jangar as he battles against dark forces to protect homeland—a metaphor for resilience and heroism that echoes throughout Kalmyk history. Its significance goes beyond mere entertainment; it serves as a medium through which generations pass down wisdom, courage, and cultural identity.
The uniqueness of Kalmyk music lies not only in its themes but also in its delivery. Traditional instruments such as the dombra (a long-necked lute) and torbagan (a type of drum) provide a distinct sonic backdrop to these tales. The melodic patterns are often complex yet hauntingly beautiful, weaving together narratives that speak to both personal and collective experiences.
Moreover, Kalmyk artists have played an instrumental role in preserving these traditions while infusing them with contemporary relevance. Artists like Mazan Poshtarov, Arkadiy Mandzhiev, Ervena Orgaeva, Okna Tsahan Zam and many more, have been pivotal in bringing Kalmyk music to broader audiences by blending traditional sounds with modern aesthetics. Their work underscores how these ancient melodies can resonate with people across different cultures and time periods.
Despite its profound cultural value, Jangar—and by extension, Kalmyk music—has not received widespread recognition outside its homeland. One reason may lie in its intricacy; understanding its layers requires familiarity with Kalmyk history and language nuances that many outsiders lack. However, at its core, Jangar embodies universal themes such as bravery, sacrifice, and love—emotions that transcend linguistic or geographical barriers.
Recognizing Jangar’s importance extends beyond celebrating artistic merit; it’s about acknowledging a small nation’s contribution to humanity’s intangible cultural heritage. While not currently listed by UNESCO as part of its Intangible Cultural Heritage registry explicitly under “Jangar,” efforts continue to promote broader awareness about this epic’s significance both culturally and historically within regional contexts related to epic traditions.
The preservation efforts for such musical heritages are crucial for several reasons: they offer insight into human creativity’s breadth across different cultures; they foster greater understanding among disparate communities; most importantly though—they ensure future generations can access these invaluable cultural resources.
In conclusion—or rather without formally concluding—Kalmyk music represents an essential thread in humanity’s diverse cultural tapestry. As we strive toward global harmony through mutual respect for our varied histories and traditions—the stories sung within Jangar remind us that beauty often resides within those realms least explored by mainstream acknowledgment.
You can find examples of how electronic music can elevate steppe folklore to a contemporary ear with broken beats.
Listen to this track called “Davour Chalzen by Okna Tsahan Zam”
Music transcends borders—it narrates our shared experiences while celebrating our differences—making endeavors like “Nyudlya: Music of Kalmyk People, Russia” and “Shaman Voices: A Journey in the Steppe” more than just preservation projects; they become bridges connecting worlds apart through chords familiar yet distinctly unique like those echoing from Kalmyk steppes.
As we continue to navigate an increasingly interconnected world—the call for recognizing gems hidden within lesser-known cultures grows louder—it becomes imperative then to lend ears—to stories untold and erased—to songs unsung—to legacies like those cradled within each note emanating from this extraordinary corner of our planet called Kalmykia.
Published by: Holy Minoza
