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Azer AbdullayevSoviet, Azerbaijani oboist; PhD in art history, professor; Honored Artist of Azerbaijan (2008).
Date of Birth: 25.02.1929
Country: ![]() |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Orchestral Career
- Academic Contributions
- Artistic Innovations
- Research and Publications
- Awards and Recognition
- Legacy
Early Life and Education
Oqtay Zeynalli(1931-2014) was born in Baku, Azerbaijan. He began his musical journey at the Baku Music Secondary School in 1947, where he studied the oboe. In 1950, he transferred to the prestigious Moscow Conservatory, from where he graduated with honors in 1952.
Orchestral Career
After graduating, Zeynalli joined the Azerbaijan State Academic Opera and Ballet Theater Orchestra as a soloist. For over five decades, he performed in the orchestra, showcasing his exceptional oboe skills.
Academic Contributions
Alongside his orchestral career, Zeynalli was also a dedicated educator. He taught at the Azerbaijan Conservatory from 1959 to 2006, holding various positions, including Head of the Wind Instruments Department. He played a pivotal role in training young musicians and developing the country's musical education.
Artistic Innovations
Zeynalli was known for his groundbreaking work as a soloist. In 1952, he became the first performer in the USSR (alongside Yevgeny Meleshkin) to play Johann Sebastian Bach's Concerto for Oboe and Violin with Orchestra.
Research and Publications
Zeynalli also made significant contributions to the field of oboe performance research. In 1969, he defended his doctoral dissertation and went on to publish numerous scholarly articles and books, including "Theory and Practice of Oboe Performance" (1968). His works continue to serve as valuable resources for musicians today.
Awards and Recognition
Zeynalli's talent and achievements were recognized with numerous awards and honors. In 1951, he received the second prize at the III World Festival of Youth and Students in Berlin. In 2008, he was conferred the title of Honored Art Worker of Azerbaijan.
Legacy
Oqtay Zeynalli's influence on Azerbaijani music was profound. He not only excelled as a performer but also nurtured generations of young musicians. His dedication to his art, his passion for teaching, and his innovative spirit have left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire musicians and audiences alike.