By Azernews

By Laman Ismayilova

The 9th International Mstislav Rostropovich Festival has solemnly opened in Baku.

The festival is co-organized by Azerbaijan`s Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Mstislav Rostropovich Foundation and the Heydar Aliyev Foundation in accordance with the Azerbaijani President's executive order on celebration of the 90th anniversary of the world-renowned cellist.

Prominent art and public figures, representatives of diplomatic missions attended the opening ceremony, Trend Life reported.

Minister of Culture and Tourism Abulfaz Garayev, addressing the event, said that the festival, which is traditionally held with the participation of world-famous musicians, conductors and ensembles, is an important event in the cultural life of the country.

The eldest daughter of the maestro, festival's artistic director Olga Rostropovich expressed her gratitude to President Ilham Aliyev, First Vice-President of Azerbaijan, President of Heydar Aliyev Foundation Mehriban Aliyeva and the Culture and Tourism Ministry for their support in organizing the festival.

"Baku is one of my favorite cities. Every time I come here, I fall in love with this city. The festivals, dedicated to the 90th anniversary of Mstislav Rostropovich have been held in Russia, USA, France, and today this significant event kicks off in Azerbaijan. The legacy of Mstislav Rostropovich unites hearts, people and countries", said Olga Rostropovich.

Further, Azerbaijan’s State Symphony Orchestra, conducted by People's Artist Rauf Abdullayev performed on the stage.

People's artist of Azerbaijan Murad Adigezalzade and laureate of international competitions, violinist Umida Abbasova thrilled spectators with beautiful music pieces.

"Concerto for piano and orchestra No. 1" by Pyotr Tchaikovsky, "Force of Destiny" by Giuseppe Verdi, "Symphony No. 3" by Khayyam Mirzazade, symphonic poem "Pines of Rome" by Ottorino Respighi sounded on the Baku stage.

Acclaimed musicians and ensembles from Russia, Austria, and Germany, including  the Saint Petersburg Academic Symphony Orchestra, conducted by of Yuri Temirkanov, Staatskapelle Dresden Orchestra,  Chamber Orchestra Vienna – Berlin as well as Rainer Honeck, Omer Meir Wellber, Keith Armstrong and others pleased spectators with their amazing performances.