AKMICA

Aga Khan Music Initiative in Central Asia

Music and musicians have long played a vital role in the cultures of Central Eurasia and the Middle East. Music traditionally served not only as entertainment, but as a way to reinforce social and moral values, and musicians provided models of exemplary leadership. Whether bringing listeners closer to God, sustaining cultural memory through epic tales, or strengthening the bonds of community through festivity and celebration, musicians have been central to social life.
Established in 2000 by His Highness the Aga Khan, the Aga Khan Music Initiative in Central Asia (AKMICA) aims to contribute to the preservation, documentation, and further development of Central Asia’s musical heritage and pursues its long-term goals both in its region of activity and worldwide. In Central Asia, these goals are to:

• Revitalise musical repertories by helping tradition-bearers pass on their knowledge and craft. • Build sustainable cultural institutions that can eventually be maintained by local organizations and communities. • Commission and support artists to develop new approaches to the performance.

Worldwide, the Music Initiative strives to:

• Increase knowledge about Central Asia’s music and culture. • Cultivate collaborations among musicians from Central Eurasia and beyond.