In the Great Hall of the Baku Music Academy (BMA) named after Uzeyir Hajibeyli (BMA), a gala evening dedicated to the national holiday of Russia – National Unity Day, organized jointly by the BMA, the Russian House in Baku and the Russian Academy of Music (RAM) named after the Gnessins, was held, Day.Az reports. .
At the opening of the evening, the head of the Rossotrudnichestvo Representative Office in Azerbaijan Irek Zinnurov noted that National Unity Day, a holiday established exactly 20 years ago and associated with important historical events, personifies the unity and cohesion of the multinational people of Russia.
The concert program plunged the audience into the world of masterpieces of Russian and world musical classics and musical folklore. Everyone’s favorite musical works were performed by famous Russian musicians - Honored Artist of Russia, soloist of the State Academic Bolshoi Theater of Russia Andrei Grigoriev, laureate of 50 international competitions Nikita Govorov, as well as the best accompanist of the International Tchaikovsky Competition Marina Kravets.
The host of the concert program, Vice-Rector of the Russian Academy of Music, Doctor of Art History, Doctor of Psychology, Dina Kirnarskaya told the audience about amazing and little-known facts about the history of the creation and performance of the works performed during the concert.
Among the guests were the Russian Ambassador to Azerbaijan M.N. Evdokimov, representatives of the diplomatic corps, business, scientific and creative intelligentsia, as well as compatriots.
The highest virtuoso performing skills of the musicians, coupled with the fascinating stories of the presenter, created an amazing atmosphere of the evening, long remembered by all those present.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Music Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we’re excited to discuss a recent gala evening that celebrated Russia’s National Unity Day, which took place at the Baku Music Academy. We have with us Dr. Elena Ivanova, an expert in cultural diplomacy and musicology. Dr. Ivanova, thank you for joining us!
Dr. Elena Ivanova: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. Can you tell us more about the significance of National Unity Day in Russia and why it’s celebrated?
Dr. Ivanova: Absolutely! National Unity Day, celebrated on November 4, commemorates the expulsion of foreign invaders from Moscow in 1612. It symbolizes the importance of national unity and the consolidation of various ethnic groups within Russia. Over the years, it has evolved into a day that promotes patriotism and reconciliation among different cultures.
Editor: That’s a profound context. How does music play a role in fostering this sense of unity, particularly in an international setting like Baku?
Dr. Ivanova: Music is a universal language. Events like the gala evening at the Baku Music Academy allow for cultural exchange, illustrating how music transcends political and geographical boundaries. Through shared performances, local and Russian musicians can create a bridge that fosters understanding and unity among diverse audiences.
Editor: Speaking of the Baku Music Academy, how did the collaboration between the BMA, the Russian House in Baku, and the Russian Academy of Music come about?
Dr. Ivanova: This collaboration reflects a robust cultural relationship between Azerbaijan and Russia. Both nations have rich musical traditions, and organizing such events enhances cooperation in the arts. The Baku Music Academy, named after the revered Azerbaijani composer Uzeyir Hajibeyli, provides an excellent platform for showcasing talents and fostering intercultural dialogue.
Editor: I understand that the gala featured performances from renowned musicians. Could you highlight any particular pieces or performances that stood out?
Dr. Ivanova: While specific performances can vary, typically, classical works from Russian composers like Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninoff would resonate with both Russian and Azerbaijani audiences. The evening likely also included folk music elements, which are essential in reflecting each nation’s unique cultural heritage. Such a mix not only entertains but also educates attendees about each other’s traditions.
Editor: It’s wonderful to see such cultural overlap. How do you think events like this contribute to long-term diplomatic relations between countries?
Dr. Ivanova: Cultural diplomacy plays a crucial role in international relations. Shared experiences, like a musical gala, build personal connections that can lay the groundwork for broader political and economic collaborations. When people come together to appreciate the arts, it helps to create a more congenial environment for dialogue and mutual respect.
Editor: That’s an insightful perspective. As we look to the future, what other similar cultural initiatives do you foresee emerging between Azerbaijan and Russia?
Dr. Ivanova: I anticipate more joint festivals, educational exchanges, and collaborative projects in the arts. There’s immense potential for orchestras and music ensembles from both countries to tour together, showcasing a hybrid of musical traditions that can strengthen ties and promote a shared cultural landscape.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Ivanova, for sharing your insights today. It’s clear that music not only enriches our cultural heritage but also serves as a bridge for unity and understanding, especially in a diverse region like ours.
Dr. Ivanova: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure discussing the power of music and cultural exchange.