Moldovan choreographer says Azerbaijan captivated his compatriot artists PHOTO

Azerbaijan’s hospitality, the scenic landscapes of Gabala and the beauty of Baku left a strong impression on Moldovan artists who took part in the 15th Gabala International Music Festival, Moldovan choreographer Iurie Bivol has said.

He noted that during the festival they presented three choreographic pieces-dances from different regions of Moldova and by the end of the performance the audience perked up, applauded wildly, and even joined their dancers, who performed a Moldovan hora in front of the stage, Caliber.Az reports, citing Moldovan media.

“It was an incredible exchange of energy,” Bivol added.

According to him, the festival stood out not only for its performances but also for the atmosphere and natural beauty of Gabala. Following the event, the Moldovan artists were given an additional day to explore Azerbaijan, including a tour of Baku.

"It's an impressive, clean city, beautiful both during the day and at night, when it lights up and the landscapes become truly magical. It also has impressive architecture. All of us, the dancers and I, were deeply impressed by what we saw, as well as the attention and care we received," he stressed.

Bivol also highlighted the hospitality of the Azerbaijani people and praised the festival organisers for providing the conditions needed for the Moldovan troupe to perform successfully.

After returning home, the artists were invited to the Azerbaijani Embassy in Chisinau. Azerbaijani Ambassador Ulvi Bakhshaliyev congratulated the performers and commended their efforts to promote Moldovan national culture.

The 15th Gabala International Music Festival was held from July 29 to August 3 with the support of Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Culture, the Uzeyir Hajibeyli Baku Academy of Music and the Gilan company.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov