MAESTRO NIYAZI

MAESTRO NIYAZI.

Niyazi was born into Musical family. From his childhood he was surrounded by musicians. His father Zulfugar Hacibeyov one of the founders of Musicial Theatre in Azerbaijan. His uncle great composer Uzeyir Hacibeyov who introduced Niyazi to Azerbaijani folk music and to Western opera and symphonic works.

Niyazi was propelled into the musical world by an experience in Moscow 1938. The Soviet Government held  «The Ten Year Festival of Azerbaijani Arts». That year the Azerbaijanis planed to perform Uzeyir Hajibeyovs operas “ Koroglu”, “ Arshin Mal alan”and opera “ Nargiz”.It so happened that Uzeyir Hacibeyov fell ill and called upon Niyazi to step in for Uzayir, Niyazi was at that time 26 years old. He had never canducted such important works in front of such and audience. The event look place in Moscow Bolshoy Theatre, Despite the intense pressure, Niyazi succespully conducted all three operas and in the process, stole the hearts of many music lovers that night. It turned out to be the beginning of a brilliant eareer.

Niyazi is recognized as Azerbaijans greates symphonic conductor.

Niyazi was also a prolific composer. He wrote the opera “Khosrow and Shirin”, lirycal ballet “Chitra” based on an Indian motive, won the international Nehru. Prize in 1974 involved in writing about 25 film scores, among his symphonic works, his favorite was the mugham “RAST”.