BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 3. The return of
Azerbaijani music to Karabakh is of particular significance for the
preservation of national cultural heritage and the restoration of
cultural life, People's Artist of Azerbaijan, Professor at the Baku
Music Academy, conductor Ramiz Malik-Aslanov said.


He made the remarks in a new episode of the analytical video
project “Dialogue with Tofig Abbasov” on the Baku Network expert
platform.


Discussing the role of art in the life of society, the maestro
emphasized that the theme of Karabakh has held an important place
in the work of national composers for decades. Pieces dedicated to
their native land, even during the years of occupation, preserved
historical memory and reflected the Azerbaijani people’s aspiration
to liberate their territories.


"The conviction that our lack of control over our own land was
only temporary never faded among the people," he noted, citing, in
particular, works by Vasif Adigozalov dedicated to Karabakh.


A significant part of the conversation was devoted to memories
of concerts held in Shusha and Khankendi in 2025, marking the 140th
anniversary of the birth of Uzeyir Hajibeyli. In Shusha, the
conductor visited the home of the renowned composer and took part
in commemorative events. Another performance also took place at
Garabagh University in Khankendi.


"It’s one thing to be here and talk about Karabakh, but quite
another to actually be there," said Malik-Aslanov.


According to him, the journey to the land of his ancestors left
a profound impression and instilled a sense of pride in the
Azerbaijani people for having liberated their lands from
occupation.


During the interview, the maestro also spoke about his
long-standing efforts to promote Azerbaijani classical music
abroad. Over the years, the concert programs he curated have
featured works by Gara Garayev, Fikrat Amirov, Musa Mirzayev, Vasif
Adigozalov, and other prominent composers.


"I have dedicated virtually my entire life to performing the
music of Azerbaijani composers," the conductor emphasized.







He also placed special focus on the importance of musical
education and the continuity of creative traditions. According to
Malik-Aslanov, it is essential for young performers not only to
master their craft but also to possess a deep knowledge of the
national repertoire.


As an example, he pointed to their work on Ogtay Zulfugarov’s
overture, "Rejoice, My People!"


"They played with great enthusiasm; they were playing their own
music, not someone else’s, but their own!" the maestro remarked,
referring to the young musicians.


According to him, engaging with works by Azerbaijani composers
helps preserve the national school of music, strengthens the bond
between generations, and fosters the continued development of the
country’s cultural life.


In this context, holding cultural events in the liberated
territories takes on special significance, as the national musical
heritage becomes an integral part of reviving the historical
traditions and spiritual life of Karabakh.


Here is the full video recording of the program for our
readers: