Vagif Mustafa-zade is one of the greatest jazz composers and pianists of the 20th century. He captivated his audiences with his originality, virtuosic technique and original harmonic language. His depth and feeling has amazed and gladdened, first of all, by his absence of pessimism, his sadness was “adorned” in light colors, similar to the nature of his native land. He was the first to add Azerbaijani color – that of mugam – to jazz, and became the founder of Azerbaijani jazz, called “jazz-mugam”. Referring to the numerous publications about the maestro, I would like to quote a few opinions:

“Mustafa-zade is a first rate pianist, to whom it is difficult to find an equal in lyrical jazz. He is the most lyrical pianist that I have ever heard."
Musician and critic, V. Conover (USA)

“His music is remarkably contemporary, at the same time it is permeated with the mysteries of ancient Caucasian melodies, glorified by poets from many different generations. It is a fairy tale told by Scheherazade on the 1002th night.”
Jazz musician, B. Juhanson (Sweden)

“Vagif Mustafa-zade is a pianist who is endowed with his own strongly pronounced hand. He plays jazz remarkably, skillfully using the Azerbaijani color. He could with every reason be an example for many jazz musicians."
P. Brodowski (Poland)

“Vagif Mustafa-Zade is one of the best pianists in the world.”
President of the Washington Jazz Club, D. Baker (USA)

A sudden death has prematurely broken off his path of life and art. Vagif Mustafa-zade passed away from a heart attack in Tashkent on 16 December 1979 on stage during a performance of his composition “Waiting for Aziza.” He was 39 years old. The compositions recorded on this compact disc belong to the pen of Vagif Mustafa-zade, and will undoubtedly bring veritable happiness to jazz lovers.

Vagif Mustafa-zade Beneficiary Cultural Fund
Producer: Afag Alieva