Omar Baderkhan’s story is vivid proof that a sincere love for one’s roots, discipline, and constant self-improvement can open doors to the world’s most prestigious stages. Having started his journey with the two strings of the dombra in his native village of Merke, today Omar proudly represents Kazakhstan abroad, wins over international juries, and proves that true art knows no borders. In this interview, Omar shares his secrets for balancing music, sports, and exact sciences, talks about his new experience in vocals, and explains why traditional Kazakh culture resonates in the hearts of people all over the world.
Нow did you start engaging in creative arts, and what exactly made you choose the dombra at seven years old?
I started playing the dombra when I was seven years old. I first heard its sound at a school event where a high school student was playing it. His performance made a great impression on me: I was amazed at how just two strings could convey so many emotions and touch the heart with their sound. At that moment, I also wanted to learn how to play this instrument. I simply fell in love with the dombra. Since then, it has become an important part of my life, and music has become my favorite passion.
Why is it so important for you to introduce international audiences to Kazakh culture, and how do foreign listeners react to the sound of the dombra?
It is very important for me to introduce international audiences to Kazakh culture because I am proud of my Homeland and want as many people in the world as possible to learn about our rich history, traditions, and music. The dombra is not just a musical instrument; it is the soul of our people. Every kui carries its own story, feelings, and mood.
When I perform abroad, I am very pleased to see the interest of foreign listeners in the dombra. Many hear its sound for the first time and are surprised at how an instrument with two strings can convey so many emotions. Even if people do not understand the language and do not know the history of the piece, they still feel the music. I believe that music has no borders and can unite people of different nationalities.
How do you manage to find a balance between music, vocals, mathematics, foreign languages, and sports without sacrificing discipline?
Sometimes it is not easy to combine so many activities, but I enjoy developing in different directions. Proper time management, discipline, and the support of my family help me. I try to structure my day so that I have time to practice music, study, learn foreign languages, and dedicate time to sports.
Of course, sometimes you have to sacrifice something, such as free time (I practically have none), but I understand that achieving results requires hard work. I believe that each activity helps me develop in its own way: music develops the soul, mathematics shapes thinking, languages open up new opportunities, and sports strengthen health and build character.
Why did you decide to try vocals after successfully playing the dombra, and what emotions does this new experience allow you to express?
I discovered vocals unexpectedly and recently. I didn’t even suspect I had such an ability until I was asked to sing while playing the dombra. That first attempt surprised even me.
I like learning new things and stepping out of my comfort zone. Vocals help me feel music differently, better understand pieces, and discover new sides of creativity within myself. I want to continue developing and not limit myself to just one direction.
How has participating in major international projects, such as Golden Time Talent, changed your perspective on your own stage performance and capabilities?
Participating in major international projects, such as Golden Time Talent, became very important and unforgettable for me. Such projects provide an opportunity not only to perform on a grand international stage, but also to get acquainted with other cultures, communicate with talented people, and learn from one another. I particularly remember the moment when, after my performance, participants from other countries came up to me and started asking about the dombra and Kazakh music. I realized that art truly brings people closer together. Even though we speak different languages and live in different countries, music and creativity help us understand each other without words.
Participating in international competitions also changed my perception of my own capabilities. I realized that one should not be afraid of big goals and dreams. Even if you live in a small village, through hard work, discipline, family support, and faith in yourself, you can achieve great results and reach the international stage.
Which of your numerous performances abroad — in France, Turkey, or the United Kingdom — became the most emotional for you, and why?
Every performance I gave abroad became special to me and left behind many bright memories. France, Turkey, and the United Kingdom gave me new impressions, connections, and invaluable experience. But my performance in the United Kingdom was particularly emotional for me. It was an important international project, and I felt a great responsibility because I was representing not only myself, but also Kazakhstan, our culture, and our national music.
Wherever I go, I always try to take my dombra with me. It accompanies me during my travels, and thanks to it, I have already been able to play in various countries around the world. It is very important to me that the sound of the dombra and Kazakh music resonates far beyond Kazakhstan. When I play the dombra and see people’s interest in our instrument, I feel immense pride. In such moments, you especially realize that music knows no borders.
How does living in your native village of Merke help you stay connected to traditions and charge you with energy for new victories?
I was born and raised in Merke, and I love my small motherland very much. Even though it is a small village, my creative journey began right here. This is where I picked up the dombra for the first time and took my first steps in music. Kazakhs have an expression: “Auyyl — altyn besik,” which means “The village is a golden cradle.” I completely agree with these words because it is the village that instills in a person love for their roots, respect for traditions, and a sense of belonging to their people.
Merke always reminds me of my roots. My family, friends, and people who support me and rejoice in my successes live here. Returning home after trips and international competitions, I feel a special energy, warmth, and support. I believe that wherever a person goes and whatever success they achieve, it is very important to remember the place where their path began and never forget their roots.
Why did hard work, respect for elders, and love for the Homeland become your main life guidelines?
I believe these qualities are very important for every person. Hard work helps achieve goals because talent alone is not enough. To achieve good results, you must constantly work on yourself. Once, after a not-so-successful rehearsal, I wanted to put the dombra aside, but my mother said: “Results come to those who keep working.” I remembered those words and realized that hard work manifests itself precisely in such moments.
Respect for elders is an important part of our upbringing and our culture. I believe we must value the experience of the older generation, respect our parents, teachers, and all the people who help us on our life path. And love for the Homeland means pride in my country, its history, culture, and traditions. Wherever I perform, I always want to represent Kazakhstan with dignity.
How do you handle nervousness before performing in front of an international jury, and what helps you maintain focus during the most crucial moments?
Before important performances, I always get nervous. But over time, I learned to view nervousness differently: if a person is nervous, it means that what they are doing really matters to them. Good preparation, constant practice, and the support of my parents help me. They always believe in me, and this faith gives me tremendous strength.
Before going on stage, I try to calm down, focus, and think about the music rather than the result. I remember how much effort and work were invested in the preparation, and I realize that I just need to go out and do my best. When I start playing, I immerse myself completely in the piece, and the nervousness gradually turns into energy that helps me focus and show everything I am capable of.
In your opinion, why is traditional Kazakh music becoming increasingly popular and understandable on the global stage?
Real music is understandable to people all over the world, regardless of what language they speak. Traditional Kazakh music is very deep, emotional, and has a rich history. In the past, Kazakhs conveyed whole stories through the sound of the dombra: telling of important events, nature, the life of the people, joys, and sorrows.
That is why Kazakh music touches the hearts of people of different nationalities — it contains sincerity, deep feelings, and a special connection with nature and the history of our people. Today, thanks to international competitions, festivals, and social networks, more and more people are learning about our culture. The special energy of Kazakh music makes it close and understandable to people all over the world.
How do you see the synthesis of traditional instrumental art and modern musical genres in your future work?
I think that traditions should not remain only in the past. They can be preserved and simultaneously developed so that they remain interesting to the modern generation. That is why I want to continue playing traditional kuis, while also trying new directions and searching for my own sound.
I am interested in how the dombra can sound in combination with modern instruments, vocals, and other musical styles. Perhaps in the future, I will create my own compositions and projects in which Kazakh traditional music meets modern sound, without losing its soul and national character.
