A group of creative figures from Turkmenistan took part in the II International Forum of Maqom Art, which was held in the Zaamin district of the Jizzakh region of Uzbekistan from June 27 to 30.

According to the MIC, at the opening ceremony, the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev made a speech, noting the history and significance of maqom art with its deep philosophy, unique artistic techniques and creative traditions, which occupies an important place in the spiritual life of Uzbekistan.

The performances of the contestants were evaluated by an international jury in three categories: “Best makom ensemble”, “Best soloist-instrumentalist” and “Best soloist-vocalist”. The forum also included an international conference on the topic “Theoretical and practical foundations of maqom art: problems and solutions” and round tables.

About 400 guests from more than 80 countries in Asia, Europe, North and South America, and Africa took part in the festival.

Makom is a vocal-instrumental genre with extensive use of improvisation and a cyclic structure of works. Makom is divided into three main traditions: Bukhara shashmakom, Khorezm makom and Fergana-Tashkent makom.

Today, the art of maqom is continuously studied throughout Uzbekistan at all stages of education – from primary to academic. A maqom center is being built in Tashkent. In order to support composers, singers and musicians actively working in this direction, national competitions are held.