AKIPRESS.COM - The International Festival of Morin Khuur is taking place for the seventh time in Dalanzadgad district of Umnugobi province on July 16-22. Since its foundation in 2008, the World Morin Khuur Association has been regularly organizing this festival every five years, Montsame reports.

The opening ceremony of the festival was held at the Musical Drama Theatre in Dalanzadgad district on July 16. The Morin Khuur Ensemble of Mongolia, artists from the Musical Drama Theatre, young Morin Khuur players, and traditional Mongol Long Song singers participated in the ceremony.

"This year, the International Festival of Morin Khuur is being held under the auspices of President of Mongolia for the first time. Remarkably, this International Festival is hosted in the rural area of Mongolia, Umnugobi province, which is home to many famous Morin Khuur players. The 7th International Festival of Morin Khuur features with three international contests, including the Contest of Professional Morin Khuur Players, the Contest of Morin Khuur Enthusiasts, and the Contest of Morin Khuur Crafters with over 170 participants. This festival holds great significance in preserving, promoting, and developing the Morin Khuur," President of the World Morin Khuur Association Jigjiddorj Nanzaddorj said.

The Morin Khuur, also known as the horsehead fiddle, is a traditional Mongolian bowed stringed instrument.