Azerbaijani maestro harmonizing Shusha's cultural legacy with global acclaim

Fuad Ibrahimbayov, the musical director and chief conductor of the Azerbaijan State Symphony Orchestra, shares about his profound ties to Shusha – a city with a rich cultural heritage that became a pivotal point in his musical career.

Ibrahimbayov also serves as the chief conductor of the Munich Philharmonic Orchestra and the Baku Chamber Orchestra. He fondly recalls conducting at the 2021 Khari Bulbul Music Festival in Shusha, where his long-held dream was realized, Caliber.Az reports, citing Euronews.

Shusha holds historical significance as the hometown of the great Azerbaijani composer Uzeyir Hajibeyov. The city's rich musical heritage, along with events from Ibrahimbayov's childhood, played a crucial role in his early musical education. He tenderly remembers receiving a violin from the renowned Azerbaijani composer Suleyman Alasgarov as a gift, marking the beginning of his musical path.

Despite the challenges of war and forced relocation, Ibrahimbayov's love for music remained steadfast, thanks to the unwavering support of his mother and the Heydar Aliyev Foundation. He was able to pursue education in Germany and attain prestigious positions in leading orchestras, realizing dreams that once seemed unattainable.

As a participant in the Khari Bulbul Music Festival, Ibrahimbayov emphasizes the festival's importance in bringing together musicians from around the world and enriching the cultural life of Shusha. He takes pride in Shusha being chosen as the Youth Capital of 2024 and encourages young people to love their craft and pursue it with integrity.