Bridging continents with sound: how music connects Azerbaijan and Europe

Author: Elmina Shahmaliyeva/ Editor: Nicoleta Geru

Azerbaijan and Europe have long-standing cultural ties, with music playing a crucial role in strengthening these connections. Thanks to events such as PianoJazzFest and collaborative projects like ‘Sofarbaku’, these ties have taken on new life in recent decades. The fusion of ancient Azerbaijani motifs with modern European sounds creates a unique harmony, blending East and West into a deeply layered musical experience.

These initiatives foster meaningful exchange and offer a stage for both established and emerging musicians to share ideas and experiences. Jazz, in particular, has become a vibrant medium for this cross-cultural dialogue. While PianoJazzFest remains a leading example, the roots of this musical partnership run deeper.  Azerbaijani composers like Uzeyir Hajibeyov and Gara Garayev have made significant contributions to global music. Their works continue to be performed in prestigious concert halls across Europe – in Paris, Berlin, and London. This cultural dialogue is further reinforced by initiatives supported by the European Union, which actively promote cultural exchange between the Eastern Partnership (EaP) countries and Europe. These projects not only preserve shared heritage but also show that culture is both a reflection of the past and a vision for the future.

One of the most striking examples of this cultural fusion occurred at the 2023 Piano Jazz Fest. The event opened with a magnificent performance of the waltz from Gara Garayev’s ballet Seven Beauties, performed by the Azerbaijan State Symphony Orchestra named after Uzeyir Hajibeyli. This composition holds immense cultural value in Azerbaijan and was delivered with such depth and emotion that the audience felt the magic of the music. Following this, George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue was performed in an original orchestration by Shain Novrasli. At that moment, I realised that music has no boundaries; its language is not just notes and rhythms but emotions that can be understood by people worldwide.

I vividly recall an interview with the jazz musician Shain Novrasli (The founder of the PianoJazzFest festival) at the Heydar Aliyev Center – a place that stands itself as a symbol of cultural exchange between Azerbaijan and the world. When asked about his sources of inspiration, I remember how he replied simply yet profoundly: “In everything beautiful, everything good, everything sad that exists in the world – anything that evokes deep emotions.” That moment truly moved me. For Shain, music is not just a sequence of sounds; it is a way to express emotions that words cannot capture. He compared improvisation to the feeling of missing home and trying to recreate something close to the warmth of a family meal. He has always sought to express his emotions through music, not just through technical execution but through the soul of the sound itself.

Events like PianoJazzFest are also instrumental in introducing jazz to younger generations. As a teenager, jazz seemed distant and complex – something beyond my reach. But thanks to events like PianoJazzFest, I discovered that jazz is alive, expressive, and accessible. It opens new musical horizons for young audiences and helps them develop a deeper appreciation for music. These initiatives have sparked a growing interest in musical education in Azerbaijan, inspiring young people to explore the art of self-expression through sound. Cannot add that The Young European Ambassadors (YEAs) network has also played an important role in promoting youth participation in cultural development projects.

Another unforgettable memory for me was participating in a Sofarbaku event. The name “Sofar” means “so close”, and that is exactly how it felt – so close to unforgettable emotions. Here, you form new connections, experience live performances of both contemporary and traditional songs, and get inspired by young talents. These festivals and gatherings are not just about listening to music – they are about feeling it, living it, and sharing it with others.

Beyond the performances, what makes these festivals truly special is their ability to bring people together – musicians, listeners, and dreamers from different backgrounds. Masterclasses, lectures, and workshops led by world-renowned artists make the event more than just a concert series; it becomes a space for learning, sharing, and growth. Music becomes the common language that bridges differences, echoing the fundamental European values of cultural exchange, inclusivity, and mutual understanding.

For me, this experience has been more than just a lesson – it has been a source of inspiration. Music truly is a bridge between cultures. The more open we are to new sounds and collaborations, the richer our cultural heritage becomes. And I eagerly look forward to what the future holds – new projects, new ideas, and new harmonies that will continue to shape this endless musical dialogue between Azerbaijan and Europe.