The Itzhak Mavashev Foundation is committed to celebrating and preserving the artistic and cultural heritage of the Bukharian Jewish community.
Cultural Preservation Projects
SHASHMAQAM FOREVER
Music plays a central role in the life of the Bukharian Jewish community. The Itzhak Mavashev Foundation is deeply invested in preserving and promoting Bukharian music, particularly Shashmaqam, the traditional music of Bukharian Jews. This art form blends Persian, Central Asian, and Jewish influences, creating a distinctive sound that is a symbol of our cultural identity.
Shashmaqam Masters Performing at the Concert
Khasan Rajabi (Uzbekistan)
vocalist, tanbur (long-necked plucked lute), sato (bowed lute)
Roshel Rubinov (USA)
vocalist, tanbur
Tahir Rajabi (Uzbekistan)
vocalist, rubab (lute with skin-covered deck)
Roman Tolmasov (USA)
vocalist, tanbur
Aziz Rajabi (Uzbekistan)
vocalist, tanbur
Ilyusha Khavasov (USA)
vocalist
Ulmas Allaberganov (Uzbekistan)
vocalist, tanbur
Abohay Aminov (USA)
vocalist
Rustam Khajimametov (Uzbekistan)
vocalist
Osher Barayev (USA)
doire (hand drum)
Jahongir Tuvdiev (Uzbekistan)
ghijak (bowed spike fiddle), vocalist
Nodir Djuraev (Uzbekistan)
vocalist
Ezro Malakovs Youth Shashmaqam Ensemble (USA)
Cultural Heritage Gallery
Oral Histories: Voices of the Community
Interviews with elders and community members to capture their personal stories, experiences, and memories. These first-hand accounts preserve the social, cultural, and historical landscape of the Bukharian Jewish community, ensuring that our rich history is told from those who lived it.
Our oral histories include:
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Personal Stories of Migration: Interviews with those who experienced the journey from Central Asia to Israel, the U.S., and beyond.
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Family Legacies: Capturing the stories of prominent Bukharian Jewish families and their contributions to our community.
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Cultural Practices: Exploring the day-to-day life, customs, and rituals that define Bukharian Jewish identity.
Community Spotlights
The foundation recognizes the incredible contributions of Bukharian Jewish individuals throughout history. Through Community Spotlights, we celebrate the achievements of notable figures who have made lasting impacts in areas such as literature, music, politics, science, and the arts.
Highlighting influential individuals within our community - sharing their stories and contributions, offering both recognition and inspiration for younger generations.
Literature & Arts
Honoring writers, poets, and artists who have preserved and expanded our cultural expression.
Music & Performance
Celebrating musicians and performers who have kept our musical traditions alive.
Community Leadership
Recognizing those who have guided and strengthened our community through their vision and service.
"By honoring our past, we inspire our future. The Laureate Awards shine a light on those who have carried our heritage forward."
Exhibitions and Art Projects
The foundation also hosts a variety of art exhibitions and special projects dedicated to showcasing the beauty and diversity of Bukharian Jewish art and culture.
Traveling Exhibitions
Documentary Projects
Interactive Installations
Cultural Workshops
Get Involved
The Itzhak Mavashev Foundation's work in arts and culture is made possible by the dedicated support of volunteers, donors, and partners. We invite you to be a part of our mission by:
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Attending our events and exhibitions
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Volunteering your time and expertise for our cultural initiatives
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Supporting our work through donations and sponsorships
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Sharing your family stories and artifacts for our archives
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Supporting our preservation and educational initiatives
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Partnering with us to expand our cultural programs globally