On 19 September 2023, Mr. Khalid Taimur Akram, Executive Director, Pakistan Research Center for a Community with Shared Future (PRCCSF), Islamabad was invited to a live radio interview at Planet FM 87.6 (the first official English news channel of Radio Pakistan). The interview was conducted by Ms. Areesha Shafqat on the program 'Eurasian Perspective'.
During the discussion, the immense contributions of Uzeyir Hajibeyli, known as the Father of Azerbaijani Classical Music, were highlighted. This renowned composer has gained a special place in the hearts of Azerbaijanis around the world, and his music serves as a source of pride and inspiration. Mr. Khalid provided a detailed insight into Hajibeyli's cultural and musical achievements. The discussion also touched upon the close cultural, historical, and brotherly ties between Pakistan and Azerbaijan.
He talked about Hajibeyli's iconic Opera "Leyli and Majnun" from 1908, in which the composer merged Eastern and Western musical traditions, marking a pioneering moment in Azerbaijani music. He also mentioned how Hajibeyli played a crucial role in promoting music in Azerbaijan by establishing the first Azerbaijani musical school in Baku, and by producing the first full-scale musical play, "Yusif and Zuleikha," in 1910.
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