Tm 2018 01

Culture | Public Affairs | Business

(Photo: Aynur Badalova)

AZERBAIJAN POSITIVELY WELCOMES 2018 Also in this issue: Baku bids for World Expo 2025 EU–Azerbaijani relations progress UK invests $27bn in 28 years IMF: Economy set to bounce back Ambassador Gunay Afandiyeva – safeguarding Turkic culture

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Enter the TEAS competition and win £100 of Amazon vouchers

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Welcome to the TEAS Magazine

Printed by www.turquoisemedia.eu

The European Azerbaijan Society (TEAS) is a UK-registered pan-European foundation dedicated to raising awareness of Azerbaijan and fostering closer economic, political and cultural links between that country and the nations of Europe.

As well as promoting the positive aspects of Azerbaijan, TEAS also highlights the plight of the 875,000 refugees and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) within the country. These people are unable to return to their homes and lands because of the illegal occupation of Nagorno-Karabakh and seven surrounding districts by Armenia’s armed forces – in defiance of four UN Security Council resolutions.

TEAS has three main facets to its operations: • Culture – TEAS raises awareness of Azerbaijan’s rich and vibrant culture to a worldwide audience by organising cultural events and operating as a networking centre.

• Business – TEAS supports its membership of European and Azerbaijani businesses. It provides a platform for organisations to establish links and strengthen their existing business relationships via a programme of networking opportunities across the regions.

• Public Affairs – TEAS works to increase awareness about Azerbaijan amongst key opinionformers, key decision-makers and other political, academic and civil society stakeholders.

In pursuit of its objectives TEAS: • Organises meetings with interested parties, opinion-formers and decision-makers • Arranges roundtables, seminars, lectures and conferences • Publishes pamphlets, reports, bulletins, books and produces films • Facilitates fact-finding trips by politicians and business people.

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The TEAS Facebook page is your chance to learn about the latest news, events, campaigns and other Azerbaijan-related items. Visit and ‘like’ our page at: http://bit.ly/TEASFB.

Membership and Sponsorship

TEAS offers a range of corporate and individual membership packages, providing such benefits as advertising, trade missions, networking, business sector advice and hotel discounts.

TEAS also offers numerous sponsorship opportunities throughout the year for its events and conferences. To find out more, e-mail: membership@teas.eu.

Win £100 of Amazon vouchers!

Firstly, our congratulations go to Natiq Sadiqov, winner of the competition in the December 2017 edition.

To stand a chance of winning £100 of Amazon vouchers, simply answer the following five questions, the answers to which will be found in this issue of the magazine. In the case of a tie, a draw will be made. Previous winners are ineligible to enter, as are TEAS employees and their families. Please send all entries to editor@teas.eu by 17.00hrs (GMT) on 5 February: 1.

2.

3.

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5.

Who is the Azerbaijani Co-Chair of the Anglo-Azerbaijani Society?

How much has the UK invested in Azerbaijan since 1992?

Who is the drummer with Bakustic Jazz, led by pianist/composer Salman Gambarov?

When is Azerbaijani Solidarity Day? Where did the conference and virtual photographic exhibition Women’s Monologues in Conflict Zones take place?

From the TEAS Director There has been a great deal of good news relating to the Azerbaijani economy. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) estimates that GDP will increase by 2 per cent in 2018. Meanwhile, Baroness Rona Fairhead, UK Minister of State and Trade Promotion, visited Baku and revealed that the UK has invested over £27bn in the Azerbaijani economy since 1992. All of this prompted the Azerbaijani government to promote Baku as a candidate to host the World Expo in 2025 during an official visit by representatives from the Bureau International des Expositions.

Congratulations to our friends at the Anglo-Azerbaijani Society on reaching their 20 th anniversary, with whom we have organised numerous joint cultural events over the years. Congratulations also to the Azerbaijani Carpet Museum on its nomination for The Best Museum in Europe award. In another cultural achievement, the kamancha and dolma have been included in

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the UNESCO List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

May I belatedly wish all friends of Azerbaijan a happy and successful 2018.

In the European Parliament there was a landmark discussion about the role of women in conflict resolution and on the impact of conflict. This included testimony from Internally Displaced Person (IDP) Vafa Farajova from Zangilan, one of the seven districts surrounding Nagorno-Karabakh that has been occupied by Armenia since 1993. In a significant intervention, H.E. Jonathan Lacôte, French Ambassador to Armenia, admitted that the Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh was not ‘frozen’. Furthermore, Paris itself played host to a noisy protest outside of the Armenian Embassy in support of the two Azerbaijani hostages, Dilgam Askarov and Shahbaz Guliyev, illegally held hostage by Armenian armed forces for over three years.

Lionel Zetter Director, TEAS

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Politics and News

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Mehriban Aliyeva, First Vice-President of Azerbaijan, speaks on the Bakuvian candidacy as the host of World Expo 2025

Bakuvian bid for World Expo 2025 under discussion

Dimitri Kerkentzes, Deputy Secretary-General, Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), undertook a working visit to Azerbaijan to discuss its bid to organise World Expo 2025 in Baku. Organised since 1931, and now held on a biennial basis (interrupted only by World War II), World Expos combine entertainment and education around a particular contemporary theme. They position the host city as a key player in the international arena, strengthen its image, stimulate investment, create jobs, bridge real and imagined gaps between politicians, civil society, business and international organisations, and increase tourism. The record attendance was at Expo Shanghai in 2010, when 73m tickets were sold.

The Azerbaijani bid is for a proposed World Expo from 10 May– 10 November 2025 under the theme Developing Human Capital, Building a Better Future, which aligns with the three UN Sustainable Development Goals of talent, that focuses on education; vitality, emphasising the need for access to healthcare; and achievement, which examines the future of work. Baku Expo 2025 would be hosted on a 200ha. hitherto undeveloped site on the east of the city between two suburbs. From above, it would resemble the eightpointed star of Azerbaijan, carpets would provide the inspiration for plazas and leisure spaces, and the iconic Azerbaijan National Pavilion would be a major point of reference for visitors navigating through pavilions and parkland.

Grand Prix to get earlier date slot

In 2018, the Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku will start in April, being earlier than previous years. This has necessitated the inception of construction works in December on the section of Khagani Street located between Pushkin Street and Bulbul Avenue. According to the Baku City Circuit (BBC) Operating Company, the volume of new construction works is significantly less than was previously the case, due to the proportion of pre-existing architecture.

The objective of the visit by Mr Kerkentzes was to enable the Azerbaijani authorities to build on their bid project and to prepare for the Enquiry Mission, which will comprise a formal visit by a BIE delegation in early 2018. The representatives of the Baku Expo 2025 Bid Committee took the opportunity to present key aspects of the bid dossier, which was submitted to the BIE in September 2017. In Baku, Mr Kerkentzes discussed the proposal with Mehriban Aliyeva, First Vice-President of Azerbaijan. He also held meetings with Samir Sharifov, Azerbaijani Finance Minister and Chairman of the Baku Expo 2025 Bid Committee; Azad Rahimov, Azerbaijani Minister of Youth and Sport; and the entire Baku Expo 2025 Task Force, led by Elchin Amirbayov, Chief Delegate of Azerbaijan to the BIE. This preliminary visit was a precursor to the BIE Enquiry Mission, which will include Vicente G. Loscertales, Secretary-General, BIE, and be led by Jai-chul Choi, Chairman, Executive Committee, BIE. The Mission Members will assess the feasibility and viability of the project, a necessary step for the candidature to proceed in the selection process. Azerbaijan is one of four countries seeking to host World Expo 2025, the other candidates being France (Greater Paris), Japan (Osaka) and Russia (Ekaterinburg). The BIE Member States will elect the host country during the 164 th General Assembly in November 2018.

Nigar Arpadarai, Departmental Head, BCC Operating Company, explained: “The pit building remains as it is, and the asphalt remains unchanged. There are already concrete barriers in the centre, although we must install some more. We will also start installing the terraces, as we have very little time. The Azerbaijan Grand Prix will start on 29 April, and we are organising our work to meet this schedule.”

20 th anniversary of the Anglo-Azerbaijani Society The UK House of Lords has hosted the annual Christmas charity dinner of the Anglo-Azerbaijani Society, celebrating the 20th anniversary of its establishment. Lord German, UK Co-Chair of the Society, began by expressing gratitude to Professor Nargiz Pashayeva, his Azerbaijani counterpart. In turn, she acknowledged the invaluable role of those who have been involved in the activities of the society and who have strived to ensure that its projects are successful. She also

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congratulated participants on the occasion of the New Year.

H.E. Tahir Taghizade, Azerbaijani Ambassador to the UK, hailed the 20th anniversary and achievements of the Society, and lauded its support in developing cultural ties and bringing the two countries closer. Professor Pashayeva also highlighted the humanitarian and charitable work undertaken by the organisation.

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Politics and News

Federica Mogherini, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, stands alongside Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev during his visit to Brussels in February 2017

EU–Azerbaijani relations move ahead

Writing in a joint report published by the European External Action Service and the European Commission, Federica Mogherini, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission commented: “Since the EU and Azerbaijan signed its last bilateral agreement in 1996 – the Partnership and Co-operation Agreement – much has changed.”

She stressed that, together, the sides would: “Look for more opportunities for young people to meet and to travel, possibilities for businesses to grow… facilitate energy relations and bring real benefits to our respective citizens.”

Johannes Hahn, European Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations Commissioner, stated: “We see Azerbaijan’s efforts to enhance its resilience, in particular to diversify its economy, and stand ready to support the emergence of new economic and social actors to help create a diverse, strong and inclusive society in Azerbaijan. We will continue our support for reforms in areas such as public administration and justice… making Azerbaijan more attractive to investors; and education – crucial for the development of the necessary skills to face the challenges of tomorrow.”

The Declaration adopted at the EU Eastern Partnership Summit in Brussels on 24 November 2017 reconfirmed the clear and continued commitment to the EU Eastern Partnership by both the EU and the six partner countries. The Summit endorsed 20 deliverables for 2020 that will help focus co-operation on tangible results, providing benefits to the people, supported by a revised multilateral structure of the EU Eastern Partnership.

The joint report notes that Azerbaijan has retained its commitment to the promotion of multiculturalism and religious tolerance. It also stressed that Azerbaijan is an important partner for the EU, which continues to support its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity. The EU also continues to back the role of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs, tasked with achieving a negotiated peace to the ongoing Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over NagornoKarabakh, and their role in confidence-building and conflict prevention, despite casualties in 2016 reaching their highest level since the 1994 ceasefire agreement.

Meanwhile, Kestutis Jankauskas, Head of the EU Delegation to Azerbaijan, characterised 2017 as being successful in terms of EU–Azerbaijani co-operation. Speaking to Trend News, he stressed that the upscaling in relations would ultimately lead to a comprehensive agreement, stating: “As you know, in late

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November, Brussels hosted a very successful EU Eastern Partnership Summit. Azerbaijan and the EU improved their understanding of each other’s positions and priorities. Both sides stressed the importance of developing co-operation.”

Furthermore, Mr Jankauskas noted that EU–Azerbaijani negotiations on an aviation agreement were nearing their culmination. He explained: “We can say that the agreement is 99 per cent complete and, at present, intensive work is underway to achieve finalisation. Given all this, I can say that, in the relations between the EU and Azerbaijan, there were very positive dynamics, and we must continue our work, based on this factor.”

His sentiments were reflected by Hikmat Hajiyev, Spokesman, Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry, who remarked: “2017 was remarkable in terms of the development of relations between Azerbaijan and the EU. Our President has determined the development of relations with the EU as one of his key priorities. The strategic partnership of Azerbaijan with the nine EU member states has provided additional stimulus for the development of co-operation with the EU. The visit by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev to Brussels in February 2017, and the meetings held with the EU leadership, gave special impetus to the development of our relations and officially mandated the inception of negotiations on a new partnership agreement between the EU and Azerbaijan.

“These constructive negotiations on the draft agreement between the parties are taking place in an atmosphere of mutual understanding. Negotiations on finalisation of the EU–Azerbaijani common aviation agreement were also held.”

Mr Hajiyev reiterated that the EU remains the largest participant in Azerbaijani trade turnover, fostering broad opportunities for closer co-operation between the parties in the political, economic, trade, energy, investment, transport and humanitarian sectors.

He recalled that these include work with Italian and other panEuropean partners to realise the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) in a timely manner, which is a central artery of the Southern Gas Corridor that, as a new source and delivery route, will make a tangible contribution to European energy security.

Commenting on the excellent level of Azerbaijani–US relations, he recalled the recent meeting between Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Rex Tillerson, US Secretary-of-State, explaining: “There are broad opportunities for co-operation in such areas as energy, transport, investment, aviation, tourism, and the fight against terrorism. Azerbaijan appreciates the support of the US in the development of the Southern Gas Corridor.”

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Business News

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Minister: UK has invested over $27bn in the Azerbaijani economy The second meeting of the UK–Azerbaijani Joint Intergovernmental Commission, attended by Baroness Rona Fairhead, UK Minister of State for Trade and Export Promotion and Shahin Mustafayev, Azerbaijani Economy Minister, took place in Baku. The UK remains the greatest contributor of foreign direct investment (FDI) to the country.

During the meeting, Mr Mustafayev emphasised that Azerbaijan attaches great importance to bilateral relations with the UK, and explained that the two countries have successfully cooperated across various economic sectors. He noted that over 500 companies utilising British capital are active in Azerbaijan.

Acknowledging the historic importance of extending the Azeri– Chirag–Guneshli oil field project until September 2050, he reiterated that Azerbaijan has successfully collaborated with BP in the oil and gas extraction sector over more than 20 years.

Recognising the interest of Azerbaijan collaboration with the UK in the non-oil acknowledged that the visit by Baroness the development of collaboration in many

in undertaking further sector, Mr Mustafayev Fairhead would lead to directions.

Mr Mustafayev also revealed that the UK has invested over $27bn (£19.6bn) in the Azerbaijani economy since 1992, stressing that there is great potential for UK companies to invest in industrial parks, and for collaboration with local companies to create livestock farms, develop medical equipment factories and increase food yield production and exports, particularly in relation to meat and milk processing. He acknowledged that there are myriad opportunities for collaboration in the developing tourism, transportation, transit and ICT sectors. Mr Mustafayev also highlighted the burgeoning role of the UK as a recipient of Azerbaijani non-oil exports.

In return, Baroness Fairhead applauded the extent of Azerbaijani achievements in the economic sphere, particularly with UK companies, spearheaded by BP. She emphasised the importance of holding this meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission, and stressed that co-operation opportunities are being studied across various sectors.

Discussions in Baku between delegations led by Baroness Rona Fairhead, UK Minister of State for Trade and Export Promotion, and Shahin Mustafayev, Azerbaijani Economy Minister, focused on the future of collaboration, both in and outside of the hydrocarbons sector

The close bilateral UK–Azerbaijani partnership and co-operation relationship began in 1992 in the framework of such international organisations as the UN, OSCE, Council of Europe and NATO. The subsequent relationship has encompassed a wide range of issues, ranging from high-level political dialogue to growing trade and investment, together with strengthening cultural and humanitarian ties.

The two countries further developed their mutual relations via the ratification of an Intergovernmental Commission on Economic and Trade Co-operation, emanating from a memorandum in 2015, signed in Baku, entitled On Economic and Trade Cooperation between Azerbaijan and Great Britain. The fulcrum of co-operation remains the energy sector. Currently, Azerbaijan extensively co-operates with the UK in the sector of exploration and transportation of oil and gas from the Azerbaijani sector of the Caspian Sea. BP is participating in seven oil and gas projects, and has considerable shareholdings in the Baku–Tbilisi–Ceyhan oil pipeline and the Southern Gas Corridor, two arteries of which are the Trans-Anatolian Pipeline (TANAP) and Trans-Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) projects. Trade with the UK during January–November 2017 amounted to $240.5m (£174.3m), of which nearly $30m (£21.7m) was accounted for by exports of Azerbaijani products, according to the Azerbaijani State Customs Committee.

IMF: Azerbaijani economy set for comeback Following analysis, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has commented that the Azerbaijani economy stabilised in 2017, due to the implementation of active macroeconomic policies and the impact of “stronger oil prices”. According to the Anadolu agency, Mohammed ElQorchi, Chief, IMF Mission to Azerbaijani, following a 15-day visit to Baku, identified that: “Growth prospects are positive in the near term.” He added that, due to expanded public investment and social spending, the non-oil sector is expected to increase by four per cent in 2018.

The IMF predicts the GDP growth rate to be 2 per cent in 2018, although this should range from 3.5–4 per cent in the medium-term, as new natural gas fields come on-stream. The IMF also commented that, as base year effects

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wear off, inflation should decline to 7 per cent and gradually recede during 2018.

Mr El-Qorchi explained: “Higher oil prices, increased non-hydrocarbon exports and import compression have also restored the current account surplus.” Prices for Brent crude oil rose steadily from $45 (£32.6) to above $60 (£43.5) per barrel from June–December 2017. The IMF went on to praise improvements in the social protection and labour sector, including the launch of a new unemployment insurance fund, implementation of pension reforms and a shift from passive to active labour market programmes.

Mr El-Qorchi issued this verdict and advice: “When oil price shocks materialised, the authorities appropriately tightened macroeconomic policies, facilitating

exchange rate flexibility, and started to address banking system fragilities. With the recession now petering out, and oil prices rising, there may be pressure to return to a fixed exchange rate regime and to unsustainably high public investment – this must be resisted.

“Although higher oil prices should help contain the negative impact on Azerbaijani fiscal balances, there is concern about the quality of public investment, and the capacity of the economy to absorb a large jump in capital spending. The IMF mission welcomes the authorities’ progress in implementing their structural reform agenda.... implementation of structural reforms, however, is critical.

The impact of measures will be heavily diluted if they are not fully and vigorously applied.”

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Personalities – Salman Gambarov

Salman leads his Bakustic Jazz – featuring Emil Hasanov (bass guitar) and Vagif Aliyev (drums) – at BOZAR in Brussels to celebrate the 25th anniversary of relations between Azerbaijan and the EU and with Belgium (Photos: Azerbaijani Embassy to the EU, Belgium and Luxembourg)

Salman Gambarov – a unique voice in Azerbaijani jazz Salman Gambarov is the current elder statesman of Azerbaijani jazz piano. Born in Baku in 1959, his precocious ability resulted in him becoming a musician with great theoretical knowledge at a very young age, developing his practical ability regarding the performance of national, classical and jazz music. After gaining an unsurpassed reputation for his ingenuity and invention, he increasingly focused on jazz piano, having been influenced by such postbop pianists as Bill Evans and Keith Jarrett. This led to the establishment of his band Bakustic Jazz in 1996, the standard composition of which is Emil Hasanov (bass guitar), Vagif Aliyev (drums) and Salman.

He is a stalwart of the annual Baku International Jazz Festival, and has performed across the world in myriad settings, ranging from the Montreux Jazz Festival to the Restoration of Disturbed Connections Festival in Mongolia. Neil Watson caught up with Salman following a barnstorming and revelatory performance amidst the art deco splendour of the main concert hall at BOZAR, the pre-eminent multidisciplinary arts venue in the heart of Brussels: Where did you initially study music?

I began my musical studies when I was aged around four, as in the 1960s it was considered that, the earlier one began to study, the better. I then attended

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preparatory school for one year before beginning 11 years of study at the Bulbul School of Music. I then transferred to the Azerbaijan State Conservatoire (now Baku Academy of Music) in the Faculty of Musicology. Following my military service, I recommenced my studies at the Conservatoire to study composition. I now hold two academic degrees in the Theory of Music and in Composition.

Did jazz form any part of your education at that time?

In fact, everything I learned before I started playing jazz – including Bach, the performances of Jacqueline du Pré, and the music of the romantic, classical, impressionist and Second Viennese schools, shaped me as a jazzman. At some point, I realised that classical music did not provide me with sufficient scope for selfexpression, and hence jazz appealed to me, as it enabled me to apply all my prejazz experience.

For a long time, I did not have enough time to play jazz, due to the demands of my education. Naturally, classical music performance accommodates a personal interpretation of certain pieces, although it is necessary to adhere to the written music.

However, jazz permits partial or complete freedom of expression, which remains very important to me. Boundaries cannot be placed around jazz – if this happens, the music will break free.

Indeed, contemporary jazz blurs the demarcation between the academic avantgarde and jazz. For example, I have played the same pieces at the Baku Festival of Contemporary Music, Baku International Jazz Festival, and Baku Film Festival as part of my improvisation to the silent film Latif, and the Baku Ethno Jazz Festival, yet they are always new, fresh and different.

When did you initially experience jazz, and what promoted you to work in that genre of music?

During the Soviet period, we could solely listen to vinyl records issued by Warsaw Pact countries, as they were the only ones available. I listened to Polish jazz, which featured some of the finest musicians in the Eastern Bloc; Bulgarian jazz; and all Soviet jazz, including the work of such magnificent Azerbaijani pianists as Vagif Mustafazadeh and Rafig Babayev. I also listened to the latest American jazz twice a week on Voice of America radio, which was difficult, due to radio signal interference.

In retrospect, it was evident that I was pursuing a trajectory towards jazz from the age of four years, as at that age I could pick out tunes without notated music. It is impossible to teach jazz to someone who cannot improvise. Academic education does not teach this element of musicality.

Is it necessary for jazz musicians to have a good theoretical knowledge?

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Personalities – Salman Gambarov

I am a theoretician and musicologist myself, and have a great understanding of musical developments from the 15 th– 20 th centuries. Not every musicologist becomes a jazzman. In fact, I was never a wunderkind – I became a jazzman at the age of 35, but was well-versed in musical theory and made a conscious decision to adopt this path. In my view, if I came to jazz when aged 15–17 years, I would have lost a lot and been unable to play at my current level.

I believe that if I had played jazz at an earlier age, I would now probably play in an American style. Many jazz musicians around the world studied at the Berklee College of Music and go on to develop a similar approach. However, my own approach owes nothing to Berklee and demonstrates that there are other ways of playing jazz.

How did Vagif Mustafazadeh’s work influence you?

All Azerbaijani jazz musicians were influenced by his work. During the 60s, when he first came to prominence, I was at primary school. I attended two of his concerts during the 1970s, and it was undeniable that he exuded certain rebellious vibes. His hairstyle and moustache were too individual for that period in Soviet Azerbaijan. The authorities wanted to cut his hair and moustache, but he refused, and all his photographs feature his distinctive facial hair. His love of freedom and attitude helped us tolerate

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that lack of freedom we had – freedom in life and on stage. For us, jazz was a window: not a window to Europe, but a window to freedom.

Your album East or West was recorded in London.

Have you recorded subsequently?

I chose this title because I wanted to let listeners decide whether they see East or West, or a combination of both. I have recorded several albums since that time, but I much prefer live concerts. I have recorded with Bakustic Jazz in the studio, and participated in several international projects for five or six years. I have undertaken a project with Aynur Doğan, a Kurdish musician, with whom I made a studio recording.

Bakustic Jazz also recorded in a studio in Berlin for Radio RBB. This project was entitled Eurasian Unity, and included musicians from Germany, Bulgaria, Poland, Iran, Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan.

Mugham incorporates microtones, whereas the piano is tempered with western scales. How is it possible to create music with mugham elements on the piano?

It is possible, if one knows both mugham and jazz, using such techniques as melismatics, that serve to incorporate the microtones found in mugham in piano music. For example, I utilise the ‘dissonance of sounds’ concept, when one plays certain combinations of notes in

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succession, which give the impression of being incorrect. It is this dissonance that creates the effect of microtones.

I am rarely heard on radio in Baku, because my music is a ‘non-format’ and thus beyond the classification and scope of popular culture. I do not permit the broadcasting of small fragments of my music, and thus I receive little airplay.

I greatly admire the solo projects of American pianist Keith Jarrett. He does not know where he will start and finish and, when he plays a solo on a grand piano, he plays spontaneously.

His improvisations take the listener on a journey, from a point of departure to culmination, and bewitch the listener to such an extent that they may fall into a trancelike state. To me, this is a sense of ‘mughamity’. As you will be aware, mugham is a vocal-instrumental genre that lasts for between 25–40 minutes, depending on the will of the performer. Compositions never last for just five minutes, and that is why I can never accept a five-minute-long piece of jazz with mugham elements. Jazz can be close to mugham, provided it incorporates various dramatic elements.

What led to the development of Bakustic Jazz?

The establishment of Bakustic Jazz coincided with the opening of the Baku Jazz Club in 1997. Despite the fact that Baku is often known as a city of jazz,

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Personalities – Salman Gambarov

After realising that classical music provided insufficient scope for self-expression, Salman pursued a trajectory towards jazz

the first club dedicated to the music only opened then. This assisted many bands, including our band, as we now had a place to rehearse.

I have worked in many European jazz clubs, and have noted that, although they are usually located centrally, the premises are usually small and poorly furnished.

Jazz is not an ostensibly commercial music, and thus often the proprietors have issues in covering the rent for the venue, let alone incorporating state-of-the-art sound equipment, décor and furnishings.

By contrast, our jazz club was fantastic, and featured works by many great painters and sculptors. I saw people visiting the club, ordering drinks and then being distracted from their drinks by the beautiful elements of the bar. Every detail of the club was exquisite. The banister rails leading to the second floor were made of wrought iron by a sculptor. Unfortunately, the venue only remained open for a decade, being replaced by a Dolce & Gabbana store.

You have worked with musicians from across the West and East, and also in numerous artistic spheres, including cinema and theatre. How do you think such a range of ventures, with various forms of constraint and freedom, impacts your music?

I am fortunate that no-one restricts my creative freedom regarding my work

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on films, nor in the theatre. Instead, directors trust me with their documentaries and feature films. My last project was undertaken at the Baku Puppet Theatre, located close to Icheri Sheher (Baku Old City). I was given a free reign to work, so I adapted themes from the music of Uzeyir Hajibeyli for the puppet theatre. I was also commissioned to write several musical compositions, as the director required certain pieces that were not amongst the original works of Hajibeyli. My pieces depicted a dance of horses before the battle, for which I also wrote the prologue and epilogue. I was given complete autonomy, and I am delighted that I have developed a mutual understanding of this level with some directors.

Where have Bakustic Jazz played and how is their music received?

The band members have individually performed in Germany, Ukraine, Russia, Poland and Switzerland. Bakustic Jazz is a band without limitations or perimeters, and its composition is constantly changing. Its name is derived from the fact that I particularly enjoy using acoustic instruments.

How is your music now developing?

My style is the absence of style, and I like change. I do not appreciate when listeners can trace my musical path, so I am always covering the tracks so I cannot be found.

I like playing amidst various instrumental

permutations and to experiment. For example, I have recently been dueting on grand pianos with German pianist Florian Weber. We just sit and play, without any thought of where we will start and finish.

Furthermore, we sit back-to-back, meaning we do not even see each other’s faces.

The adrenalin from the spontaneous improvisation with musicians, without any prior discussion, casts a spell over me.

How is jazz now regarded in Azerbaijan, and which are your favourite younger musicians?

Unfortunately, Azerbaijani jazz musicians are mainly pianists – we have problems with other instruments. We do not have much choice of instrumentalists – a couple of drummers, a couple of bassists; there are virtually no wind players on saxophone, trumpet and trombone, nor vibraphonists.

We never gather big crowds – it is for pop music to attract a mass public and fill stadiums. Unfortunately, most young musicians want to gain rapid public acclaim, whereas I am against populism in jazz and generally in music. Thankfully not all musicians are like this, and I particularly enjoy the work of Elchin Shirinov, a young pianist who has not pursued fleeting public acclaim.

Visit http://bit.ly/salmansolo to see Salman Gambarov playing solo at the Morgenland Festival in Osnabrück in 2012.

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Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict

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Impact of conflict on women and their role in conflict resolution discussed in European Parliament The Brussels-based European Caucasus House (EUCASA) NGO organised the emotionally-charged conference and virtual photographic exhibition Women’s Monologues in Conflict Zones at the European Parliament, co-hosted by the MEPs Sajjad Karim and Heidi Hautala. The project focused on the women who have become the direct and indirect victims of the ongoing Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh and those conflicts over Kashmir, Abkhazia and South Ossetia, and the Northern Rakhine State in Myanmar (formerly Burma).

The purpose of the meeting was to build awareness, momentum and understanding of the role of women in achieving sustainable peacebuilding. It enabled those in attendance to learn more about the women and children affected by conflict and to experience their feelings and attitudes towards war and peace.

The meeting aimed to increase comprehension of the issues impacting women during war; eliminating violence against women in areas ravaged by conflict; and supported women’s participation in decision-making. The event also promoted the use of gender perspectives in policy development and enhancing protection for women affected by conflict. Speakers called for increased accountability and advancement of the status of women in post-conflict settings.

During the conference, speeches were delivered by MEPs Sajjad Karim, Heidi Hautala, and Wajid Khan; Leyla Gasimova, Project Chairperson, EUCASA; Dennis Sammut, Director, LINKS; Lia Jobava, Co-founder,

EUCASA; Ali Raza Syed, Chairman, Kashmir Council Europe and Qaisra Shahraz, Trustee, Manchester Multifaith Centre, and Co-chair, Faith Network for Manchester (FN4M).

Mrs Shahraz highlighted the importance of the active role of women during ongoing conflicts, emphasising that their perspectives should be taken into account during peace negotiations, demobilisation programmes and postconflict reconstruction. All speakers stressed the importance of listening to civil society, particularly women who are Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and refugees, emphasising that they should participate in conflict prevention and peacebuilding.

The speakers repeatedly referred to the failure of peace negotiations, particularly in the conflict over NagornoKarabakh, as being attributable to the exclusion of the most affected sides, especially women and girls.

They highlighted the need to continue working closely with all actors to ensure that the needs of conflicting parties are addressed in a holistic manner, with a focus on finding long-term solutions to conflict and displacement in conflict zones.

Vafa Farajova, an IDP journalist from Zangilan, one of the seven Azerbaijani regions adjacent to Nagorno-Karabakh that was occupied by Armenian forces in autumn 1993, urged all states and those dealing with IDP issues to recognise their rights and needs. She explained: “Although we have been provided with special measures for protection and assistance, and are being treated equally with non-IDP citizens, I am unable to defend and exercise my basic rights.”

The female speakers and delegates at this emotionally-charged event stood in solidarity

British MEP Sajjad Karim contextualised the discussion of the role of and impact on women in conflict zones at this pivotal juncture

Vafa Farajova, an IDP journalist from Zangilan, related her own memories of displacement

Georgian Lia Jobava, Co-founder, EUCASA, emotionally recalled the impact of the invasion of South Ossetia

Protest in Paris over Azerbaijani hostages

Representatives of Azerbaijani diaspora organisations and those supporting the maintenance of human rights protested in front of the Armenian Embassy in Paris to demand the release of Dilgam Askarov and Shahbaz Guliyev, who were taken hostage by the illegal occupying Armenian forces and remain in custody. The hostages were seized when visiting the graves of their ancestors in July 2014, during which a third man – Hasan Hasanov – was shot dead by the Armenian forces. It is claimed that the hostages were also subjected to psychological and physical torture.

On 19 December 2014, Dilgam and Shahbaz were subsequently tried by an unrecognised court and sentenced to life and 22 years, respectively. According to AzVision, during the protest, photos of the two hostages were brandished aloft, and such slogans as “Stop Armenian Aggression”, “Freedom for Dilgam Askarov and Shahbaz Guliyev”, and “Release Azerbaijani hostages”, were chanted. The protest culminated in the submission of a statement to the Embassy.

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The protestors were passionate and vituperative (Photo: Report)

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Personalities – Ambassador Gunay Afandiyeva

Gunay Afandiyeva – safeguarding and expounding Turkic culture Ambassador Gunay Afandiyeva is the President of the recently-established Bakubased International Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation. Previously Consul of the Azerbaijani Consulate-General in Istanbul from 2004 and SecretaryGeneral of the National Commission of the Republic of Azerbaijan for UNESCO from 2009–15, she has played an integral role in organising many international events in Azerbaijan, and has represented her country at numerous conferences at the UNESCO headquarters and across the world.

Furthermore, she is a renowned researcher and author, having been published extensively in the local and foreign media. In recognition of her work, Gunay Afandiyeva has been granted numerous national and international diplomas, certificates and prizes.

Neil Watson caught up with Mrs Afandiyeva in her office in Baku to find out more: You worked as the Secretary-General of the National Commission of the Republic of Azerbaijan for UNESCO from 2009–15. In which activities were you involved and what were the issues in making the Azerbaijani perspective understood in UNESCO? Promotion of a culture of peace and fostering dialogue among civilisations remains a key component in all UNESCO missions and activities. Azerbaijan has repeatedly demonstrated that it is a reliable partner for UNESCO and fully supports the maintenance of tolerance and understanding between all nations, ethnic and religious groups. These have been the particular focus of all activities

undertaken by the National Commission of the Republic of Azerbaijan for UNESCO. The major work of the Commission includes implementation of several largescale cultural, educational and scientific programmes aimed at promoting cooperation amongst peoples, traversing cultures and religions, and building bridges between them.

During this period, Azerbaijan hosted several major and significant international events, such as the World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue, Baku International Humanitarian Forum, Congress of Azerbaijani Women, the 18th session of the International Bioethics Committee, and other far-reaching events, attracting the participation of high-level government officials, the heads of internationallyrenowned organisations and diplomatic missions; prominent political, scientific and cultural representatives; and distinguished experts from around the world.

The National Commission of the Republic of Azerbaijan for UNESCO has promoted Azerbaijani culture, its unique heritage and national values throughout all its activities.

I would like to particularly highlight the role of Mrs Mehriban Aliyeva, First VicePresident of Azerbaijan, UNESCO and ISESCO Goodwill Ambassador, for her involvement in the development of UNESCO–Azerbaijani relations; her participation in large-scale events and her dedication to the ideals of UNESCO. It should also be underlined that numerous examples of the rich cultural heritage of Azerbaijan, including the latest additions – the pearl of Azerbaijani cuisine, dolma and the stringed musical instrument, the kamancha – have been inscribed

Ambassador Gunay Afandiyeva is ensuring that, through the work of the International Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation, Azerbaijan is at the fulcrum of promoting awareness of Turkic culture

on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity due to the tireless efforts and initiatives of Mrs Aliyeva.

UNESCO and Azerbaijan share the same values of tolerance, peace, and respect for universal moral principles.

They both support the development of friendly relations between nations, the protection of historical and cultural heritage, religious tolerance, cultural diversity and human dignity. Shared core values make Azerbaijan a trusted partner of UNESCO. The Commission has also highlighted the longstanding commitment of Azerbaijan towards developing dialogue between cultures and the concept of multiculturalism.

What led to the establishment of the International Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation?

The Turkic-speaking states and peoples are bound together by their common historical roots and cultural richness, heritage, language, and literature. They share epic poems and literature, music, art, handicrafts, traditions and moral values. In fact, this common heritage reflects their similar history, lifestyle and spiritual world.

Establishment of the International Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation was necessary to reinforce the existing strong ties between Turkic-speaking nations, and to enforce their co-operation in the cultural sector.

Gunay Afandiyeva views inspirational cartoons by Alp Gurhan Yalciner, alongside Elmar Mammadyarov, Foreign Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and Mevlüt Cavusoglu, his Turkish counterpart.

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The Foundation was established at the initiative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, and with the

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Personalities – Ambassador Gunay Afandiyeva support of the heads of the other member states – the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic and Republic of Turkey.

The Secretariat of the Foundation is located in Baku, and it started to officially implement its functions and duties following my appointment as its first President, in accordance with the Decision adopted on 11 September 2015 in Astana by the Council of the Heads of States of the Turkic Council.

What are its aims and objectives?

The objectives of the Foundation are to protect, study and promote Turkic culture and heritage by supporting and funding activities, projects and programmes. In order to achieve its aims, the Foundation supports partnership between the Turkic-speaking peoples, being intended to actively foster co-operation with other international organisations and institutions.

Protection of the historical and cultural heritage of the Turkic World that has been neglected, at risk of destruction and destroyed is one of the imperative activities of the Foundation.

The Foundation already started to organise seminars, workshops and conferences, and plans to arrange congresses and field studies that, together with exhibitions, present the rich culture of the Turkic World to a wide international audience. Although

the Foundation has only recently launched, its activities bear testament to its mission.

How do the representatives of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic and Turkey work together?

In the future, the International Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation plans to organise large-scale programmes dedicated to the protection, preservation, promotion and transmission of Turkic culture and heritage for future generations.

As previously stated, the Foundation has only recently been established, and we are only now in the process of realising largescale projects with member states. This period has been beset with challenges, as we are very new and only just beginning to develop and grow.

Nevertheless, we are doing our best and are currently working on the implementation of a range of projects that will encompass the traditions, music, folklore, history, literature, and rich epic traditions of these countries.

We are also planning to realise projects regarding the revival of the historic Great Silk Road, and its valuable contribution towards the cultural enrichment of Turkicspeaking countries located along its route.

Another project planned for 2018 will be dedicated to celebrating the anniversaries of great personalities through the

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performance of their works, and the commemoration of historic events in the Turkic world. We are also considering staging theatrical performances of Turkic origin plays in the member states and other countries. The Foundation also supports promotion of artists at different musical festivals. For example, on 3­– 4 July 2017, the Foundation, together with the Embassy of Azerbaijan to the Republic of Kazakhstan, supported the presentation of artists playing on the tar, oud, kamancha, nagara and davul at the renowned 10 th Astana-Arkau Traditional Turkic Music Festival, featuring traditional music performances on national instruments from all corners of the Turkic world.

Currently, we are in the process of preparing for the Sixth Summit of the Heads of the States of the Turkic Council, to be held in 2018, which will open new perspectives and increase cultural awareness of the Turkic world.

Which events and publications are organised and printed by the Foundation?

Although the Foundation remains relatively new, several important international events, conferences, exhibitions and forums aimed at preserving and promoting the historical and cultural heritage of the Turkic world and strengthening unity amongst its nations were organised during 2016–17.

Gunay Afandiyeva outlines the role of the Foundation during a meeting of the International Organisation of Turkic Culture (TURKSOY)

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Personalities – Ambassador Gunay Afandiyeva

On 20 December 2017, the Foundation co-organised, together with the Embassy of the Republic of Turkey in Azerbaijan, an exhibition entitled One Nation – Two States, comprising works by Alp Gurhan Yalciner, the Turkish cartoonist. Several high-level government officials, including the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the Republics of Azerbaijan and Turkey, as well as the heads of various diplomatic missions, participated in this exhibition of artworks, which demonstrated the reality of the fraternal ties between Azerbaijan and Turkey. This exhibition was extraordinary as, apart from introducing their common cultural heritage, the artist showed, in a humorous way, the double-meaning of common words in the Azerbaijani and Turkish languages.

On 12 April 2017, an international conference entitled Islamic Solidarity: Harmony of Cultural and Religious Diversity, was hosted in Baku, jointly organised by the Foundation, Caucasus Muslims Board, Azerbaijani State Committee on Religious Associations and the Baku International Multiculturalism Centre. This event was of great importance to Azerbaijan, which was the main cultural, religious and civilisation centre of the Islamic world, located between East and West, having made a great contribution to the development of the multiculturalism, tolerance, and establishment of intercultural and civilisational dialogue, in addition to promoting the true essence of Islamic culture in the world.

Several other important events were undertaken in 2017 by the Foundation in collaboration with other organisations from the Turkic world, gathering together famous cultural representatives and scholars from the member states. The proceedings from some of these events were later published in book format.

How does the Foundation collaborate with such organisations as the Turkic Council, TURKSOY, and TURKPA? The Foundation closely co-operates with several related and affiliated organisations, including the Turkic Council, International Organisation of Turkic Culture (TURKSOY), and the Parliamentary Assembly of Turkicspeaking Countries (TURKPA).

We frequently meet to discuss ongoing work progress, planned projects, international partnerships and opportunities for advancing co-operation between the organisations representing the Turkic world.

I also participated in and gave a lecture at the Junior Diplomats’ Fourth Training

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Gunay Afandiyeva participates in a group discussion on Turkic and Latin-American Culture, History and Traditions – a Continental and Regional Approach at the National Congress of Brazil in Brasilia

Programme that took place on 12 July 2017 at the Kyrgyz Diplomatic Academy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, organised by the Turkic Council. This event provided an opportunity for young Turkic-speaking diplomats to make a presentation on the common cultural heritage of the Turkic world, focusing on its significant figures, traditions and values.

We have realised several joint events with our related organisations. For example, the Foundation, together with the TURKPA, organised a conference dedicated to the 25th anniversary of the independence of the Turkic-speaking States in Baku on 24 November 2016. Following this event, the inaugural exhibition to be hosted by the Milli Majlis (Azerbaijani Parliament) was organised, reflecting the different unique features and values of the Turkic world.

Furthermore, it should be noted that the Foundation has specified goals regarding the preservation and promotion of the artistic heritage of outstanding personalities from the Turkic world. Consequently, on 2 March 2017, in collaboration with TURKSOY, the Foundation organised an extensive event dedicated to the tricentenary of the birth of Molla Panah Vagif in Ankara, Turkey.

On 6 May 2017, a roundtable on the topic Turkic Heritage at the Crossroads of Cultures and Civilisations was organised by the Foundation within the framework of the Fourth World Forum of Intercultural Dialogue, in co-operation with UNESCO, the UN Alliance of Civilisations, the UN World Tourism Organisation, Council of Europe, ISESCO, North-South Centre of the Council of Europe, Heads of the

International Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation, Turkic Council, TURKSOY and the Research Centre for Islamic History, Art and Culture (IRCICA), alongside many other international guests represented at the event. This was a very significant event, aimed at exposing the religious diversity and cultural richness of the Turkic-speaking peoples, along with the promotion of their historical and cultural heritage, as well as discussing the role of the Turkic world in intercultural dialogue and its contribution to world culture. Currently preparation of the proceedings emanating from the roundtable is underway.

How is the Foundation active in the west?

The rich cultural heritage of the Turkic world is of great value, both for Turkicspeaking states and the culture of the entire world. In this regard, the Foundation has been represented at many important international events and conferences in Europe, Asia and the US, introducing the rich cultural heritage of the Turkicspeaking countries to the international community.

The Foundation is building links between the culture and civilisation of the Turkic world and the world of other cultures.

For example, our researchers have undertaken analysis of the similarities in culture between the Turkic world and Latin America. Based on the discovery of parallels between the cultures of these two spheres, it has become evident that the Latin American and Turkic worlds are connected by commonalities between culture, heritage, language and history.

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Personalities – Ambassador Gunay Afandiyeva Following our research work, we organised a conference on 23 October 2017 entitled Turkic and Latin-American Culture, History and Traditions – a Continental and Regional Approach at the National Congress of Brazil in Brasilia, the capital – with the support of the Federal Senate of Brazil, the Embassies of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Turkey to Brazil, and TURKSOY. This conference was followed by a concert featuring the music of the Turkic world, and the private view of a photographic exhibition entitled A Piece of Turkic Heritage in Brazil, featuring images of the natural landscapes and historical and cultural heritage of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Turkey.

During the trip to Brazil, the Foundation, in co-operation with the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Brazil and with the support of the Unions of Philatelists in Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Turkey, presented postage stamps reflecting history, culture, art and architecture, together with the intangible heritage of the three member states at the Foundation of the Brasilia 2017 World Stamp Exhibition, organised by the Brazilian Federation of Philately and the Brazilian Post and Telegraphy Corporation (Empresa Brasileira de Correios e Telégrafos).

Separately, in the framework of the trip to Latin America, the Foundation organised, together with the Embassies of Azerbaijan and Turkey in Argentina, a scientific seminar entitled At the Crossroads of Latin-American and Turkic Cultures, at

the Belgrano University of Bueños Aires, Argentina. The Foundation presented cultural elements from all member states, including literature, history and art, providing great opportunities to introduce the culture of the Turkic world to Latin America.

The Latin-American initiative constituted the first step undertaken by the Foundation towards becoming active in the other parts of the world. We are very much looking forward to establishing ties with western nations, including the UK, in addition to those international organisations functioning abroad.

During the short period that has elapsed since its establishment, the Foundation has initiated numerous contacts with other international organisations. We signed a Memorandum of Understanding with IRCICA in April 2017 and are hoping to widen our global partnerships and co-operate with other international organisations in the future.

What is the role of the Foundation in preserving Turkic heritage in the regions that remain under Armenian occupation?

As you know, Azerbaijan has suffered from the ongoing Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh for many years.

Nagorno-Karabakh is a valuable jewel for Azerbaijan, with its rich historical and cultural wealth, numerous architectural monuments, artworks, music, literature, traditions, and handicrafts. Unfortunately, the destruction

Gunay Afandiyeva signs a Memorandum of Understanding on behalf of the Foundation with Dr Halit Eren, Director-General, Research Centre for Islamic History, Art and Culture (IRCICA)

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and misappropriation of hundreds of architectural and archaeological sites of national and international importance, manuscripts, mosques, temples and cemeteries by the Armenian occupiers has greatly damaged the culture and history of the entire Turkic world, and this continues to the present day.

In this respect, the Foundation undertook a project with the support of the National Commission of the Republic of Azerbaijan for UNESCO, resulting in the publication of a book in 2017 entitled Historical and Cultural Monuments in the Occupied Territories of Azerbaijan: Damage and Loss. This investigates the destruction and misappropriation of monuments, due to the conflict, and introduces the truth to the world.

As our research studies cover numerous materials, we are currently working on the second part of this project that will provide the research basis for an additional catalogue that will include supplementary information about the damage and loss enacted on the historical monuments of the region. The book and catalogue will serve as a tool, calling for combined efforts to protect our traditions and values and for international pressure to be exerted on Armenia to withdraw their troops from the occupied lands.

How do you see the Foundation developing in the future?

I hope that, due to its hard work and commitment, the Foundation will become one of the foremost organisations of its kind in the world. We are actively working to achieve this by widening our collaboration via various international organisations.

The Foundation aims to deepen ties, both with Turkic-speaking countries and other nations.

The Foundation is also looking forward to welcoming new member states in the near future, both from Turkic-speaking nations and the west. The culture of any country contributes to national identity and only joint efforts will enable it to be protected and passed to future generations. I believe that art, religion, history, media, literature, science, education, youth and sport – all elements of culture – are methods of undertaking a joint struggle against all forms of violence in the long-term.

Through its current and future activities, our Foundation aims to exemplify the great potential for culture to foster international dialogue, achieve prosperity and provide support for civilised development. I hope that this newly-functioning Foundation will successfully achieve this goal.

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Culture

Musical celebration of German bicentennial celebrated in Baku

The Goethe-Institut, which champions the study of German culture and language overseas, organised the Baku Silk Road Festival to celebrate the bicentennial of the arrival of the first German emigrants to the Caucasus. The programme featured renowned musicians from Germany, Turkey, Georgia, Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan, and comprised jazz concerts, musical seminars and various exhibitions.

The events – all of which were free to attend – took place in locations across the city, including the Kapellhaus (Catholic Chapel), Shirvanshahs’ Palace, Rotunda Jazz Club and Chamber & Organ Music Hall (former Lutheran Church). The music included jazz-mugham, jazz, electronic and classical music. Concerts included a new project named Cycle by tenor saxophonist Rain Sultanov and Montreux Prize-winning pianist Isfar Sarabski for organ, saxophone and piano. This was designed to represent the consequential phases of human genesis and evolution.

Divan Accoustic – a sextet drawn from the ranks of the Berlin-based Divan der Kontinente (Divan of the Continents) chamber orchestra – performed a specially-commissioned project in the Kappellhaus.

Its remarkable and unique music is based on concepts of free improvisation, mimesis and dialogue, together with translation and appropriation, reflecting on questions of communality and creating new soundscapes, arising from transcultural encounters in spaces of diversity.

Later that day, the full Divan der Kontinente ensemble brought together musicians from various musical backgrounds and traditions. They played a range of instruments, including the oud and ney (end-blown flute) from the Middle East; European orchestral and jazz instruments; and electronica.

On the other hand, TSU ART was formed in 2011, bringing onstage vibrant and original Georgian sounds and rhythms, and combining acoustic instruments and electronica with non-musical instruments made from industrial plastic pipes and other materials.

The Berlin-based Divan der Kontinente Ensemble brought together musicians from a range of diverse traditions (Photos: Aynur Badalova)

The ensemble shot to fame in 2012 after becoming a finalist on a nationwide talent show on Georgian television.

German-based ensemble LebiDerya, went on to perform their soundscape entitled On the Edge of the Ocean, representing a musical encounter of the Orient and Occident. This saw four virtuosi merge their musical backgrounds into a uniquely multifaceted collective sound influenced by chamber music, folklore and electroacoustic percussions, including the sound of the Qanum, an Azerbaijani national instrument.

The music was complemented by an exhibition in the Kapellhaus of uniquely deformed carpets by artist Faiq Ahmed, which saw the warps, usually seen only as fringes in carpet and otherwise covered with knots, become transformed into the central element of his work. On the other hand, Vertigo was a sound installation inspired by classical Oriental poetry, national and European music traditions, conceived by artist Farhad Farzaliyev, poet Leyli Salayeva, musicologist Jahangir Selimkhanov and curator Asli Samadova. This focused on the transformation of part of the Seven Beauties poem (1197) written by the great Azerbaijani poet and philosopher Nizami Ganjavi (1141–1209), imagining its further development during modern times. Visit www.silkroad-fest. com to find out more about the festival.

Carpet Museum nominated as The Best Museum in Europe

The Azerbaijani Carpet Museum has been included on the shortlist of 40 nominees for the European Museum of the Year Award (EMYA), and stands a good chance in winning during 2018, according to Shirin Malikova, Director, Azerbaijani Carpet Museum and Chairperson, Azerbaijani National Committee of the International Council of Museums (ICOM). She went on to reveal that, for the first time in the

history of the museum, a unique Shamakhi carpet was purchased at auction for the collection in 2017.

Mrs Malikova added that this Shamakhi carpet, previously in a personal collection in France, now ranks amongst the oldest pile carpets in the museum. She continued: “Over the past two years, the Azerbaijani Carpet Museum has purchased

Aisel to sing at Eurovision 2018

It has been confirmed that Aisel Mammadova will represent Azerbaijan in the 2018 Eurovision Song Contest, following an internal selection by İctimai Television. The song for the competition in Lisbon will be unveiled at a later date. Known under the single appellation of Aisel, the singer was born into a musical family in Baku in 1989. In 2010 she graduated from the Baku Academy of Music.

44 items, including carpets, national clothes, jewellery and items found during archaeological excavations. Some were purchased, while others were presented to the museum.” The Azerbaijani Carpet Museum contains around 10,000 items and was originally founded by carpet expert and weaver Latif Karimov in 1967, although the new premises, in the shape of an unfurling carpet, was opened in 2014.

Pundits have placed Aisel in sixth place to win Eurovision 2018, pre-empting the decision over her song

During a long career, Aisel has achieved a considerable following, particularly in the world of jazz. She has participated in several musical festivals, including the Caspian Jazz and Blues Festival (2002), the Baku International Jazz Festival (2005–06), the MuzEnergo Festival of Music Improvisation (2007), the Montreux Jazz Festival (2009) and the Caucasus Jazz Festival (2012). Go to http://bit.ly/aiselstring to hear her interpretation of the standard I’ve Got the World on a String, accompanying herself on piano.

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Culture

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Gyunel Couture puts on the Ritz

The established London-based fashion house Gyunel Couture is to showcase its Spring/Summer 2018 collection at the aptly-named Salon d’Été at the Ritz in Paris in the Place Vendôme on 24 January at 15hrs, just a few days in advance of the launch of Paris Fashion Week.

Founded by designer and artist Gyunel Rustamova, the runway will return her designs to the city that hosted her first Couture collection for the sixth time. Initially an artist, her work takes its inspiration from her Azerbaijani roots and many diverse cultures, combined with influences from art, history and contemporary culture. Journalists and fashionistas alike have received every collection with acclaim. Go to www.gyunel.com to find out more about Gyunel Couture and email camille@totemfashion.com to attend the runway.

Legendary model Yasmin Le Bon leads the Gyunel Couture catwalk in 2014

Cellist Jamal Aliyev brings rare repertoire to Wigmore Hall As many classical music aficionados may be aware, the 24-year-old London-based Azerbaijani cellist Jamal Aliyev ranks amongst the brightest stars on the contemporary scene. The year 2017 was particularly momentous, having seen him make his solo début at the BBC Proms in the Royal Albert Hall (broadcast on BBC Radio 3 and TV channel BBC 4), winning the ‘Arts Club – Sir Karl Jenkins Music Award’, and being selected for representation by YCAT. His first album, Russian Masters (with pianist Anna Fedorova), has also been released by Champs Hill Records to critical acclaim.

This season he also made his début with the Philharmonia Orchestra at the Royal Festival Hall, and it has been announced that he will be recording with Warner Classics – one of the leading classical labels in the world.

Built in 1901, Wigmore Hall is one of the foremost concert halls for lieder and chamber music and, on 13 February, Jamal will grace its stage again for a rich, varied and unusual programme of works, accompanied by pianist Daniel Evans. His repertoire will include a transcription for cello and piano of English composer Henry Eccles’ (1670– 1742) Violin Sonata in G minor (trans. Jawher Matmati); a transcription of the Arpegionne Sonata

by Franz Schubert (1797–1828), originally written for the eponymous (and now rarely-used) bowed guitar; the Cello Sonata in G Minor by Fryderyk Chopin (1810–49), his only Sonata for the sonorous instrument; and the uplifting Variations on a Theme of Rossini, written in 1942 for Russian cellist Gregor Piatigorsky by Czech composer Bohuslav Martinů (1890–1959). Go to http://bit.ly/jamalwigmore2018 to purchase tickets.

Pianist Sadykhov passes away at 88 Leading Azerbaijani pianist Chingiz Sadykhov has passed away in his Californian home at the age of 88 years. Educated at the Bulbul Music School in Baku and Azerbaijan State Conservatoire (now Baku Academy of Music), he undertook his doctorate at the Moscow Conservatoire. He initially focused on classical music, but thereafter switched to Azerbaijani

music, accompanying some of the leading vocalists in the country, including Bulbul (1897–1961), lyric tenor Rashid Behbudov (1915–89) and baritone Muslim Magomayev (1942–2008), who achieved iconic status in the Soviet Union. Go to http://bit.ly/chingizimamyar to see and hear him collaborating with kamancha player Imamyar Hasanov.

Florida Keys Music Competition begins its quest In honour of the centenary of the birth of legendary Azerbaijani composer Jevdet Hajiyev (1917–2002), his daughter, Pervin Muradova, together with fellow pianist/ educator Kay Lang, pianist/composer Vivian Fang Liu and Tohfa Eminova, President, Azerbaijani–American Cultural

Association, have launched the Florida Keys International Music Competition for Young Talents.

The prizes are divided into two categories, the musicians’ competition being open for musicians aged 5–23 years and vocalists

Kamancha and dolma inscribed on UNESCO List Dolma – vineleaves stuffed with rice, vegetables, meat and spices – and the kamancha – a stick fiddle – have been included in the 2017 UNESCO List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the latter submission being shared with Iran.

The decisions were made during the 12th session of the Intergovernmental Committee

Cellist Jamal Aliyev is set to amaze the discerning Wigmore Hall cognoscenti

for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Seoul, South Korea.

The tradition of dolma-making and sharing was included as it is a marker of Azerbaijani cultural identity, whereas the kamancha has existed for over 1000 years, the crafting and playing techniques being transmitted

aged 5–32 years. The Audition Round and Gala Concert/Award Ceremony for Winners will be organised in the Weill Recital Hall of Carnegie Hall, New York. Audition videos should be received by 1 July 2018. Go to www.floridakeyscompetition.com for full details of auditions, repertoire and fees.

orally. The Azerbaijani kamancha differs to the Persian version in various ways, being shorter by 3–4cm and made of a solid piece of mulberry, the Persian kamancha being made from various slices of walnut. Watch http:// bit.ly/ayishiginda to see US-based kamancha virtuoso Imamyar Hasanov playing the folksong Ay Ishiginda (Under the Moonlight).

Azerbaijani student film screened at the Cinémathèque française According to the Report news agency, the short film New York

by Orkhan Abbasov has been screened at the Cinémathèque française. A student at the International Film and Television School in Paris, his film was one of 10 out of 40 selected for screening

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by an international jury led by director/screenwriter Claire Denis.

Mr Abbasov is the only Azerbaijani to receive a Master’s degree from the School. Visit http://bit.ly/orkhannewyorktrailer to see the trailer for New York.

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