Sabina Rakcheyeva and Gunel Mirzayeva: East Meets West

About the Programme

This concert will take you on a musical journey from classical to jazz and improvisation. Presented by two artists from Azerbaijan, whose similar background and passion will take the listeners on a fascinating journey connecting East and West. 

This concert is dedicated to the memory of Humay Guliyeva — a true citizen of the world, whose boundless passion for knowledge and education touched many lives. Throughout her career with international organisations, Humay inspired others with her dedication and generosity, before her life was sadly cut short at a young age.

All proceeds from the event will support the Huma Gushu Charity Fund, carrying forward her legacy of kindness and service.

Please find more information HERE

Dr. SABINA RAKCHEYEVA, Violin

Born in Baku and based in London, Sabina Rakcheyeva is the first-ever Azerbaijani to graduate from the prestigious Juilliard School in New York. She has performed in over 40 countries, including for the Presidents and the members of the British Royal family. Sabina is passionate about the fusion of Eastern and Western cultures. She is a member of the European Cultural Parliament and completed her PhD in Cultural Diplomacy from the University of London. Besides performing, Sabina could be heard at the WEF in Davos as well as seen in films – her recent project “Leila’s Violin” was an official selection at the Monaco International Film Festival. 

Gunel Mirzayeva, Piano

Driven by an all-consuming passion for J.S. Bach, Gunel Mirzayeva has forged a revolutionary performance approach bridging Western and Eastern musical traditions. Her pivotal 2006 journey from Azerbaijan to London opened doors to extraordinary opportunities, leading to electrifying performances at prestigious venues including London’s Wigmore Hall and Barbican Hall, and Amsterdam’s Concertgebouw.

In 2016, Mirzayeva’s groundbreaking exploration of cross-cultural interpretation revealed stunning connections between Baroque masterpieces, Azerbaijani piano traditions, and mugham improvisation. Now a pioneering force in contemporary classical music, she channels unstoppable creative energy into cutting-edge musical projects and breathtaking modern interpretations of Bach’s works, creating transcendent experiences that captivate audiences worldwide.