Museum of folk instruments is located at the edge of Panfilov park in downtown Almaty. It's a nice wooden structure with a distinctive green roof, but ruined with ugly concrete Soviet edifices behind it. It seems small but interesting to visit, which we were not able as it's closed on Mondays when we were there.

A number of instruments representing a number of periods with sections for local artisans and another for international instruments. The museum is well done and the structure itself is historically significant having housed Soviet officers during their period of control.

I'm a musician so I really enjoyed this but I think it would appeal to anyone. Displays a wide range of Kazakh folk instruments as well as instruments from around the world. Many are beautiful crafted. I really wanted to get a Dombra after seeing the exhibit, but the timing didn't work and I wasn't sure how to get it home. I ended up getting a Saz in Istanbul which is similar.

Across cultures, people have found ways to create music through the most peculiar and beautiful forms of instruments. This collection contains a broad spectrum of international instruments, while of course featuring local contributions. I was surprised to see so many bagpipes from different countries. Signage is sparce, so go with a guide if you can. But even without one, it's a visual feast.