Afrasiyab Badalbeyli Azerbaijani composer, conductor, musicologist and publicist Date of Birth: 19.04.1907 Country: Azerbaijan

1. Early Life and Influences
2. Education and Career Start
3. Opera, Ballet, and Music Composition
4. Conducting and Academic Work
5. Recognition and Legacy

Early Life and Influences

Afrasiyab Badalbeyli was born on April 19, 1907, in Baku to parents from Shusha. His mother was a descendant of a Persian prince, while his father established a school and supported Uzeyir Hajibeyov's efforts to establish a musical theater in Azerbaijan.

Education and Career Start

Badalbeyli's passion for music began at an early age, and he began playing the tar at around six. He studied at the 6th Muslim-Russian Music School, the 1st Real School, and the State Pedagogical Institute, where he excelled in music theory and performance. He also attended the Azerbaijan State Turkic Music College, where he studied violin and performed Azerbaijani folk melodies.

Opera, Ballet, and Music Composition

Badalbeyli is renowned for his significant contributions to Azerbaijani music. He composed the music and libretto for "The Maiden Tower," the first Azerbaijani ballet and the first ballet in the Muslim East. He wrote operas such as "Nizami" (1948) and "The Willows Will Not Weep" (1971), which explored historical and social themes.

Conducting and Academic Work

In 1930, Badalbeyli began conducting at the Azerbaijan Opera and Ballet Theater. He also conducted symphony concerts and taught at the conservatory. As a musicologist, he published a comprehensive musical dictionary, combining known musical terms with Azerbaijani ones he had developed.

Recognition and Legacy

Badalbeyli received numerous accolades, including the title of People's Artist of the Azerbaijan SSR. His work blended Azerbaijani folk traditions with Western influences, enriching the cultural landscape of the region. His compositions continue to be performed and celebrated, cementing his legacy as a pioneer of Azerbaijani musical expression.