Alim Qasimov and Fargana Qasimova

Alim Qasimov is one of the leading exponents of Mugham, a traditional genre from Azerbaijan known for its complexity and deep emotional force. From a very early age he developed a profound connection with the spiritual music of his culture. His style combines virtuoso technique with an intense ability for improvisation, earning him international prestige and, in 1999, the UNESCO International Music Prize. In the course of his career he has worked with artists from different traditions, taking Mugham to stages all over the world. His daughter, Fargana Qasimova, also worked from an early age to channel her talent for Mugham and the repertoire of songs of the ashiks, troubadours and singer-songwriters of the Azerbaijani popular tradition, preserving and renewing this cultural heritage. Both artists will be accompanied by a quartet of musicians.