Postcard from Bishkek

The Philharmonia

One of the most striking and easily recognisable, marble-faced, buildings in central Bishkek is the Philharmonia Concert Hall, (named after Toktogul Satylganova), at the junction of prospects Chui and Manas.

This is, in fact, the third such home of the Philharmonic Society – which was established in 1936, based on the orchestra of the Kyrgyz State Theatre.  The first home of the society was in the building now occupied by the Metro Pub, (on the corner of Prospect Chui and Turusbekova) and the second the Kyrgyz Promstroi Bank on the other side of Prospect Chui from the present building.

The present concert hall was built in 1980 and the Manas Sculptural Complex which stands in front of it, was erected in 1981.  The complex comprises of a statue depicting the legendary Manas in a pose resembling St. George slaying the dragon.  He is riding his horse, Akula, with a dragon, (or winged snake), entwined around them.  The plinth on which he stands is flanked by statues of his wife, Kanykei, and his friend and advisor, Bakai, and busts of various famious Manaschi (Balykov, Dzapiev, Orozbakov, Karaliev) .

Inside there are two concert halls, one large with capacity for an audience of 1200 and, on the third floor, a smaller one with 300 seats.  On the ground floor there is a large restaurant – and the building also houses two night clubs.  The spacious lobby with displays, and busts of some famous Kyrgyz musicians.  There are are some large stained glass windows, displaying Kyrgyz motifs which make an interesting sight when lit up at night.

The ticket office is on the Western side of the building.

Concerts include performances of both classical (western) and traditional Kyrgyz music as well as by local popular artists (pop music – Kyrgyz “Estrada”).