Gabala Hosts Grand Opening of 2nd “Winter Tale” International Music Festival
Gabala, The Gulf Observer: The solemn opening ceremony of the 2nd “Winter Tale” International Music Festival was held on February 6 in the picturesque city of Gabala, marking another significant cultural milestone for Azerbaijan.
Organized by the Baku Music Academy named after Uzeyir Hajibeyli with the support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, the Ministry of Culture of Azerbaijan, and Gilan, the international festival is being held for the second consecutive year in Gabala.
The opening ceremony was attended by Leyla Aliyeva, Executive Director of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation Anar Alakbarov, Minister of Culture Adil Karimli, along with other officials, prominent public figures, and a large audience of local residents and guests.
Addressing the ceremony, Rector of the Baku Music Academy, People’s Artist of Azerbaijan and Artistic Director of the festival Farhad Badalbeyli described the Gabala “Winter Tale” International Music Festival as a remarkable event for Azerbaijani culture. He expressed deep gratitude to the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, the Ministry of Culture, and Gilan for their continued support in organizing the festival.
Following the official proceedings, music enthusiasts enjoyed a special concert program titled “Viva Opera”, presented by the Symphony Orchestra of the Azerbaijan State Academic Opera and Ballet Theater. The orchestra was conducted by Honored Artist of Azerbaijan Eyyub Guliyev.
The concert featured celebrated arias from operas by Jimenez, Franz Lehár, Léo Delibes, Domenico Modugno, Agustín Lara, Alberto Bixio, Giuseppe Verdi, Luigi Denza, and Gioachino Rossini. The program also included an Italian song, the Azerbaijani folk song “I Sprinkled Water on the Streets”, and “Azerbaijani Dance” by Mamed Mirzayev.
Performances by soloists Afag Abbasova (soprano), Aytac Shikhalizade (mezzo-soprano), Azer Zade (tenor), and Mahir Taghizade (baritone) were met with enthusiastic applause from the audience.
The program of the 2nd Gabala “Winter Tale” International Music Festival is extensive and diverse. On February 7, music lovers will attend the chamber music evening “Baku–Naples: Music Bridge”, featuring works by Azerbaijani and Italian composers and symbolizing the enduring friendship between Azerbaijan and Italy.
