SHUSHA, Azerbaijan, May 14. The significance of
the "Kharibulbul" International Music Festival is immense, Mustafa
Mehmandarov, a participant in the festival and conductor of the
Uzeyir Hajibeyli Azerbaijan State Symphony Orchestra, told Trend.
"Shusha is the homeland of my great-grandfather from the
Mehmandarov lineage. I first performed in Shusha in 2023 at the
Mehmandarovs' House Complex, which was opened after restoration -
this was within the framework of the 'Kharibulbul' festival. At
that time, I performed together with my own collective. It was
particularly symbolic for me, as my ancestors are from here. The
Uzeyir Hajibeyli State Symphony Orchestra also took part in that
concert. It was then that I first experienced the strongest
emotions associated with this place. This is not my first time
participating in the festival itself - on May 10, 2023, as part of
the events dedicated to the 100th anniversary of Heydar Aliyev, I
also took part in a concert. Overall, I have been here as an
invited guest and observed the festival. And I can say that its
significance is immense. It is held, first and foremost, to
perpetuate the memory of our fallen soldiers and our ancestors, as
well as to preserve and develop our cultural heritage," he
said.
Mehmandarov emphasized that for him, Shusha is sacred land.
"For me, it is a great honor to be here, to perform at the
festival, and I feel a special responsibility. I wish all
participants success. Everyone here gives their maximum and
participates in this festival with great pleasure," he said.
On May 14, the opening of the 9th "Kharibulbul" International
Music Festival, organized by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and the
Ministry of Culture, took place in the city of Shusha on the Jydyr
Duzu plain.
Over the course of two days, concerts and cultural events will
be held at various venues in the city of Shusha. The festival is
aimed at developing intercultural dialogue and strengthening
musical ties and creative exchange between artists from different
countries.
