Music and dance has traditionally been an important means of expression for the peoples of Central Asia and the South Caucasus. Musical instruments and dance styles used vary from the forested Caucasus to the deserts and steppes of Central Asia, from the nomadic peoples to the urban cultures along the Silk Road. We would like to introduce you to the music and dance traditions of the different peoples of the region as well as artists who represent them.
Elegant, harmonious movements are typical for the dance of the Uzbeks, Uyghurs and Tajiks. Emotions are mainly expressed through arm and head movements, gestures and facial expressions. The Uzbeks distinguish between dance styles from Choresm, Fergana and Bukhara. The latter is similar to the Tajik style. See an example of Bucharian dance style in the video:
Caucasian dances are mostly danced in a circle or on the line. While the women usually move very gracefully, the men make powerful movements, which are often accompanied by expressive arm movements. See a traditional Azerbaijani dance in the video:
Important musical instruments in Central Asia are stringed instruments that are plucked, such as Rubab, Komuz, Dombra and Dutar, as well as those who are played with a bow like the Rubab or Kyl Kobyz. Also very popular is the frame drum Doira. Instruments mainly used at weddings by Uzbeks, Tajiks and Uighurs are the wind instruments Karnay and Surnay.
Cultural Dialog in Eurasia 