By Renowned Azerbaijani Mugham singer Aqil Suleymanov delighted American audiences last week with an extraordinary concert in Minnesota, showcasing the richness of Azerbaijani music. During this performance, he was accompanied by Azerbaijani dancer Leman Hendricks, who resides in Austin, Texas, and has long been dedicated to promoting Azerbaijani traditional music and dance in the United States. Looking ahead to November 8, Suleymanov will once again take the stage at the renowned Lincoln Center in New York City, where he and his musical partner promise to deliver the deep essence of Azerbaijani Mugham, the melodic nature of Azerbaijani music, and the captivating elegance of the piano.
Aqil Suleymanov’s Musical Journey in the United States
Aqil Suleymanov has spent over seven years promoting Azerbaijani Mugham and its unique depth in the United States. His journey began in 2014 when he first visited the USA with the “Qarabagh Ensemble” to participate in the SXSW music festival, a pivotal experience that introduced him to the American music scene. Since then, he has actively promoted Azerbaijani culture and Mugham in America through his solo performances, creating a significant impact.
In Texas, Aqil began collaborating with the Bereket Middle Eastern Ensemble, where he introduced Azerbaijani music to new audiences. His Mugham performances sparked great interest among American audiences. After spending four years in Texas, Aqil moved to New York, a city known for its vibrant cultural scene, where he has continued his mission of promoting Azerbaijani music. As the only Mugham performer in the United States, he embraces the responsibility and takes pride in representing his cultural heritage.
In New York, Aqil’s notable collaboration has been with Hunter College professor George Murer. This partnership led to a connection with Professor Farzad Amoozegar, with whom Aqil is now working on establishing a Mugham course at Hunter College. This course will play an important role in educating students about this ancient art form and expanding the academic reach of Mugham music.
Aqil’s future plans include performing and teaching at various universities across the United States. In addition to a master class at Brandeis University on November 8, 2024, Aqil will also perform in Minnesota on October 12, aiming to introduce Azerbaijani Mugham to a new audience. In 2025, he anticipates joining the “Qarabagh Ensemble” for a concert tour at multiple U.S. universities.
About Nargiz Aliyarova
One of the prominent figures in Azerbaijani music, Nargiz Aliyarova was born in Baku and graduated from the piano faculty of the Baku Academy of Music in 1991. As an Honored Artist of Azerbaijan, Aliyarova is the soloist of the Azerbaijan State Piano Trio and a laureate of several international competitions. She is also the founder of the National Society of Music and Global Culture, contributing significantly to promoting Azerbaijani culture globally.
Promoting Azerbaijani Music on the Global Stage
Aqil Suleymanov and Nargiz Aliyarova’s participation in prestigious concerts like these plays an essential role in the international promotion of Azerbaijani music. Aqil believes that Mugham’s profound and universal appeal strengthens cultural bonds and enriches listeners on an emotional level. Through each performance, Aqil conveys the unique subtleties of Mugham, striving to make Azerbaijani music known and loved worldwide.
These performances present Azerbaijani music not only as a sound to be heard but as a language that speaks directly to the heart, embodying a source of pride for Azerbaijani artists and their country.
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