The Korto concert hall in Paris hosted a concert by the Avey duet – laureates of international competitions, flutist Agaragim Guliyev and pianist Eldeniz alekperzade, our compatriots studying and living in France.
this was reported to Day.Az by the Association Dialogue France-Azerbaijan (dialogue Association France – Azerbaijan, ADFA).
The evening featured works by Gabriel Fauré, Frank Martin, Sergei Rachmaninov, Karl Reinecke and the Azerbaijani classic Fikret Amirov.
“The hall was full of spectators,and the atmosphere was truly magical. The concert duet Avey not only adequately represented Azerbaijan, but also reminded of the importance of cultural diplomacy. Music has a unique ability to unite people, regardless of their origin or beliefs. The hall greeted the compositions of Fikret Amirov especially warmly His works, inspired by the rich musical heritage of Azerbaijan, found a response in the hearts of the audience. The bold combination of national motifs with elements of European classics created a powerful emotional impact that did not. could leave no one indifferent. The stormy applause became a clear confirmation that Amirov’s music is capable of speaking a global language that everyone can understand,” the message says.
Since its founding in 1981 by Jacques Lagarde,the afternoon and a Half concerts have become one of the most anticipated events in the world of classical music. Their unique format and rich program attract not only dedicated art lovers, but also a new generation of listeners. As the 2019-2020 season, this cultural project has been led by Stefan Friederisch, who has breathed new energy into it, while maintaining respect for the original concept.
How can aspiring musicians effectively incorporate their cultural heritage into their performances?
Interview wiht Expert Musician Agaragim Guliyev: Cultural Diplomacy through Music
time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Agaragim. Your recent concert in Paris with pianist Eldeniz Alekperzade has received rave reviews.Can you share what it felt like to perform in such a prestigious venue as the Korto concert hall?
Agaragim Guliyev: Thank you for having me! Performing at the Korto concert hall was a truly magical experience. The venue not only has an unbelievable acoustic quality but also a rich history in the classical music scene. When we took the stage, the energy from the audience was overwhelming, adn it fueled our performance. It’s moments like these that reinforce the profound connection between music and cultural expression.
Time.news Editor: Your repertoire featured works by both European classical composers and Azerbaijani maestro Fikret Amirov. What significance does this blend hold in terms of cultural representation?
Agaragim Guliyev: Integrating works by composers like Gabriel Fauré, Frank Martin, and Fikret Amirov is notable on multiple levels. It reflects the essence of cultural diplomacy, showcasing the richness of Azerbaijani music alongside Western classical traditions. The audience especially resonated with Amirov’s compositions, which beautifully blend national motifs with European influences. By performing these pieces, we celebrate our cultural heritage while also engaging in a dialogue across cultures, a critical exchange in today’s globalized world.
Time.news Editor: the concert was described as a sublime representation of Azerbaijan. How do you believe music contributes to strengthening cultural ties internationally?
Agaragim Guliyev: Music is indeed a universal language. It transcends borders, connecting individuals irrespective of their origin or beliefs. During our concert, the warm reception of Amirov’s music was a testament to this. The emotional journey that music can elicit plays a pivotal role in fostering understanding and appreciation among different cultures. In essence, performances like these remind us that, through shared experiences, we can build bridges between diverse communities.
Time.news Editor: The concert series you participated in was founded in 1981 and has drawn art lovers for decades. What can you tell us about the efforts to keep the series fresh and relevant under new leadership?
Agaragim Guliyev: Since Stefan Friederisch took the helm in the 2019-2020 season,the concert series has infused new life into its traditional format. It’s crucial to maintain the balance between honoring the original concept and adapting to contemporary audience preferences. This evolution speaks to the dynamism of the classical music scene, attracting not just dedicated aficionados but also newer generations who seek innovative and engaging experiences.
Time.news Editor: What practical advice would you give to aspiring musicians looking to share their cultural heritage through music, similar to what you and Eldeniz have achieved?
Agaragim guliyev: My advice would be to stay true to your roots while being open to collaboration and influence from other traditions. study your own cultural music deeply,and don’t hesitate to experiment with different genres. When performing, focus on storytelling through your music; every piece has a narrative that can resonate with listeners universally. seize opportunities to perform internationally, as exposure to other cultures will enrich your artistry and broaden your impact.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Agaragim, for sharing your insights today.It’s inspiring to hear about the power of music in cultural exchange and diplomacy.
Agaragim Guliyev: Thank you for the chance! I hope that our work continues to inspire connections and appreciation for the beauty of diverse musical traditions.