Rauf Abdullayev

The People’s Conductor, professor Rauf Abdullayev is an illustrious representative of modern musical culture of Azerbaijan.
Many people in countries such as France, Germany, USA, Russia, Great Britain, Turkey, Iraq, Egypt, Belgium, Italy, Finland, Austria, Switzerland, Mexico, United Arab Emirates, etc. are familiar with his outstanding performances.
He graduated with honors from the Piano faculty of the Uz. Hajibeyov Baku Academy of Music and the faculty of Opera and Symphonic Conducting of the Saint Petersburg State Conservatory.
Following his graduation, he was invited to serve as a conductor to the Opera House in Baku, where he worked as the Chief Conductor from 1968 to 1984.
Since 1984, Rauf Abdullayev serves as the Artistic Director and the Chief Conductor of the Uz. Hajibeyov Azerbaijan State Symphony Orchestra.
In the last couple of years, under Mr. Abdullayev's supervision, the orchestra has achieved a high level of performance culture and professionalism, widely evidenced by numerous successful tours abroad.
Mr. Rauf Abdullayev’s wide-ranging repertoire includes music of different epochs, styles and directions.
Both professionals and music fans always welcome his impeccable artistic taste and subtle interpretation.
He pays special attention to the performance of musical compositions by Azerbaijani composers.
Many operas, ballets and symphonies by these Azerbaijani composers were performed for the first time both at home and abroad under Mr. Abdullayev’s supervision.
He is also the founder and the organizer of classical music festivals such as “Music of the 20th Century” named after Gara Garayev.
His 40-year service as the Chief Conductor in different artistic collectives is a unique and rare phenomenon in the musical world, which speaks of his great prestige.
Mr. Rauf Abdullayev has been awarded state and many other honorary awards and titles during his active and untiring career.
Also, during his service as the chief conductor of the Ankara Ballet Theatre and Opera from 1993 to 1997, he was twice awarded the title of the Best Conductor of the Year of Turkey.

02/2011