Bukhara, a magnificent city, more than 2000 years old, has a rich history. Situated in the middle of the Silk Road, it figures in UNESCO’s World Heritage list.  Its enchanting architecture witnessed the creation of the shashmaqam, a meeting of Uzbek, Tajik musicians and singers, as well as members of the Jewish community.   They developed a sophisticated, learned music, in which one can find texts of Sufi poetry about divine love.  The word shashmaqam signifies « 6 maqams », or six modes.  It is a repertoire made up of multiple instruments and songs.

Uzbek singer Gulzoda Khudoynazarova is one of the most important voices of Central Asia.  She was born in Bukhara, where she studied folkloric traditional music and the shashmaqam.  Thanks to her strong scenic presence and her powerful voice, she is today considered one of the main shashmaqam interpreters.  She renders her concerts unforgettable.

• Gulzoda Khudoynazarova: song
• Bekzod Safarov: dutar (lute), drum
• Farruh Vohidov: gijjak (a traditional violin)