Female conductor that breaks all boundaries [INTERVIEW]

(MENAFN- AzerNews) By Laman Ismayilova

Not too long ago, a female conductor leading a classical orchestra was a rarity. For instance, Vienna Philharmonic did not invite a female guest conductor to lead its orchestra until 2005.

However, things have changed a lot over the past decade as many women are now presiding at the conductor's podium. 

Turan Manafzade breaks down all musical boundaries as a female conductor. The choice of such a rare profession for a woman was influenced by her brother, talented pianist and composer Abuzar Manafzade.

"I was 23 years old. At that time I did not realize how strategic was a decision I made in my life and on behalf of my country. Before conducting, I graduated from Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University, where I studied in piano class of associate professor Nurferi Onur. Afterwards, I decided to continue my education in the class of Italian conductor Antonio Pirollin," she told Azernews.

In her interview, Manafzade highlighted the attitude towards female conductors.

"People's view on this issue is changing thanks to "positive discrimination", support to women and an increasing number of female conductors in the world. Nowadays women are evolved in many work areas. After all, everyone appreciates your work if you are doing it properly," said Manafzade.

Speaking about her most memorable performances, Manafzade noted her concerts in Azerbaijan and abroad.

"I enjoy all my performances in each country or city, especially those in my homeland. All performances, in each country or city, take special place in my heart, especially in my homeland," said Manafzade.

The conductor stressed a welcoming atmosphere at concerts in Azerbaijan. It is always a great pleasure to her to perform works by prominent national composers as well as her own music pieces and those one composed by Abuzar Manafzade.

Her performance of first ever Concerto for Balaban and Symphonic orchestra was also exciting and spectacular.

After successful premiere in US, Abuzar Manafzade's music piece was presented in Baku on May 25, a the birth date of eminent female conductor.

Today, Turan Manafzade is known as an incredibly talented pianist and conductor who successfully promotes Azerbaijan's rich music abroad.

Since 2019, she has been studying MBA program at Istanbul's Bahcheshir University.

"I am writing a thesis on digital culture. There are many extensive and interesting sources on this subject. My plans are to successfully complete this master's degree and work on myself during the pandemic. During this time, I continue to compose new works and studio records. My new piano performances will be soon released at all digital platforms," she added.

In conclusion, Turan Manafzade shared her advises to future female conductors.

"I consider myself lucky to play before showing interest in the art of conducting. It is very useful to master a musical instrument for conductor. Here is my advise to all ladies who want to be conductors: You need not only talent and hard work, but also courage, self-confidence and openness for self-improvement. I can say that women have to possess these qualities twice as much," she said.

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