Azerbaijani mugham concert helt at UCLA

Along with Azerbaijani-Americans, the event also attracted a diverse audience of UCLA's faculty and students, representatives of Iranian- and Turkish-American communities, and some foreign diplomatic corps stationed in Los Angeles.

The event was opened by the AAC Board Director, Mr. Javid Huseynov, who talked about the upcoming cultural events and activity of the community organization. The general introduction was followed by the speech of Consul General of Azerbaijan, Mr. Elin Suleymanov, who welcomed the visitors, introduced the "Ghadim Sharg" group and talked about their earlier performance in Montana. Further, the ensemble coordinator, Mrs. Sanubar Baghirova talked about mugham music, its history and influence on Azerbaijani culture. She introduced the music ensemble quartet, consisting of the tar player Elman Sadighov, percussionist Mahmoud Salah, kemancha player Elnour Mikailov, and traditional Azerbaijani mugham singer Qochaq Askarov, and provided background information on musical pieces performed. The exceptional musical performance of the ensemble brought several rounds of applause from the
audience.

In addition, professional photographer Ms. Agdes Baghirzade presented her photo exhibition of Azerbaijan's natural landmarks and historical monuments, which the visitors enjoyed during the break.

On behalf of Azerbaijani-American community, AAC thanks the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and Friends of Azerbaijani Culture Society, headed by the first lady of the Republic of Azerbaijan and UNESCO's goodwill ambassador, Mrs. Mehriban Aliyeva, for their sponsorship of the "Ghadim Sharg" ensemble's U.S. tour and performances. AAC also thanks the Consulate General of Azerbaijan for their help in organization of the event at UCLA.