The Art of Akyns, Kyrgyz Epic Tellers

　　
Proclamation: 2003

　　Member State(s): Kyrgyzstan

　　Region: Asia-Pacific

　　Associated themes: Oral traditions and expressions

　　Majestically situated amidst the Tien Shan mountain range of Central Asia, Kyrgyzstan boasts a spectacular natural setting and ancient nomadic traditions. The predominant form of cultural expression among the Kyrgyz nomads is the narration of epics that have survived over the centuries solely by oral transmission. The art of the akyns, the Kyrgyz epic tellers, combines singing, performance, improvisation and musical composition. The epics are performed at religious and private festivities, seasonal ceremonies and national holidays. The tradition is most prevalent in the northern and southern regions of the present-day Kyrgyz Republic.