On November 30, as part of The Pyramids Echo festival taking place in Giza, Dimash Qudaibergen will perform a two-hour solo concert. Before his show in Egypt, a new country and a new continent for him, the Kazakh artist answered several questions from the festival organizers.

Do you feel a connection between history and the present, between Kazakhstan and Egypt?

— I’m from Kazakhstan, from the city of Aktobe. I was raised not only by my parents but also by my grandparents. Since childhood, my younger sister, brother, and I have heard many stories about our traditions. Our elders taught us the meanings of proverbs and sayings, and the wisdom of the past was passed to us through music — through songs and kyuis, which are traditional pieces played on the dombra.

Our country, like Egypt, has an ancient history but moves forward with the modern world. So yes, I feel a special connection between our nations. I believe the present can’t exist without the past.

When did you first hear about the Pyramids?

— The first time? Probably a long time ago — maybe even in the last century! (laughs) I don’t remember exactly, but I think I first saw the Pyramids in cartoons and children’s books. Later, we learned about ancient Egypt at school.

What do the Pyramids and ancient Egyptian civilization mean to you?

— For me, they’re symbols of culture and wisdom. They show how deep and rich the history of Egypt is. I really respect how you keep and share this heritage with the world.

Is this your first concert in Egypt? Have you ever been here as a tourist?

— Yes, it’s my first time in Egypt. Unfortunately, I’ve never been here even as a tourist. So I’m really happy to be here now and to share my country’s culture at this festival.

What role do you think music plays in bringing people and cultures together? Do you believe art and culture can help make the world more peaceful?

— Just come to one of my concerts anywhere in the world — in Kazakhstan, Europe, or America. You’ll see people from different countries sitting together, singing in different languages — Chinese fans singing in Russian, Spanish fans in French, and everyone singing in Kazakh. My amazing Dears family is the best proof that music connects hearts without any words.

What are your impressions of the “Pyramids Echo” festival? What does it mean to you to take part in its very first edition?

— I’m really happy to be part of this new international project. I hope this first festival will be the beginning of many more events here, on this beautiful land full of ancient stories.

What would you like to say to your Egyptian fans who are waiting for your concerts at the Pyramids? And maybe to the Kazakh community living in Egypt?

— I want to send my warmest greetings to all Kazakhs living here, and to all my fans who are interested in the culture of Kazakhstan — a country far away from Egypt. It’s such an honor and joy for me to represent my homeland on a new continent. Thank you for your support and love.

Tickets are available at Tazkarti Events.