Zhetigen

Zhetigen – The Ancient Harp of the Steppes

The Zhetigen is an ancient Kazakh plucked box zither, historically featuring 7 strings set over movable bridges made from sheep ankle bones (known as asyq). It produces a gentle, crystalline, and mystical tone.

The Moving Origin Legend

According to legend, an old shepherd lost his seven sons one by one during a severe winter freeze. In his grief, he crafted a wooden box, attached seven strings to it using sheep bones as bridges, and composed a mournful melody for each son. This created the Zhetigen (meaning 'Seven Songs' or 'Seven Souls').

Modern Evolution

While the ancient Zhetigen had just 7 gut strings, modern redesigned versions feature between 13 and 21 strings. Moving the bone bridges allows musicians to quickly retune the instrument, making it essential for modern Kazakh folk ensembles and soloists.