By Vestnik Kavkaza
On April 16th a concert devoted to the 95th anniversary of Kara Karayev took place in the Grand Hall of the Moscow Conservatory. Karayev is one of major composers of the 20th century, academician, People’s Artist of the Azerbaijani SSR. The concert was organized by the Ministry of Culture of Russia and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Azerbaijan.
Polad Byul-Byul Ogly, Ambassador of the Azerbaijani Republic to Russia, says: “As Ambassador of Azerbaijan and a musician I am very glad that the event devoted to my teacher, the outstanding Soviet and Azerbaijani composer Kara Karayev, is taking place in the Grand Hall of the Moscow Conservatory. Kara Karayev contributed a lot to the music of the 20th century, and today a new generation listens to his music and admires it. Holding the anniversary evening in Moscow confirms that our cultural relations are inseparable. I am glad that the hall is full, the audience reacts wonderfully to Kara Karaeyv’s works. The P.I. Tchaikovsky Symphony Orchestra is conducted today by Azerbaijani conductor Elshad Bagirov. The orchestra sounds perfect; the audience is great; the evening is fantastic. I am glad that it was organized.”
The P.I. Tchaikovsky Grand Symphony Orchestra with conductor Elshad Bagirov played music by the outstanding composer who was popular world-wide. Symphonic gravures “Don Quixote”, the suite from the ballet “The Path of Thunder”, the violin concerto with orchestra were played at the evening. Elshad Bagirov stated that:”The music which was played today is classics of not only Azerbaijani, but world music. I have staged more than 35 performances in the Istanbul Theater, which are connected with names of Russian composers and Western classics. We have worked with many directors and ballet-masters. And I continue it today. Today one can listen to music at home. However, I believe century-long traditions should continue.”
Violinist Alena Bayeva who played solo in the event said: “It the first time I have played Kara Karayev’s concert, and it is a great discovery for me. The individuality is bright, colourful and emotional. There are parallels to Berg, Bartok, and Shostakovich sometimes. At the same time, he had an absolutely different language. It is very interesting – to study, to understand, to feel, to transfer. Music leaves a very strong impression. This violin concerto was innovative for its time. It contains many techniques which were rarely used at that period – harmonies, combinations, sound colours. It is contemporary today.”
