Huseyngulu Sarabski

Sarabski

Huseyngulu Sarabski (1879–1945) was a prominent Azerbaijani opera singer (tenor), composer, playwright, music teacher, and actor. He is considered one of the founders of professional musical theatre in Azerbaijan and played a significant role in the development of Azerbaijani music and theatre during the early 20th century.

Biography

Huseyngulu Sarabski was born in Baku, in the Russian Empire (now Azerbaijan). He showed an early interest in music and theatre, and despite the initial disapproval from his conservative family, he pursued a career in the arts. Sarabski's talent was recognized early on, and he became a leading figure in the cultural life of Baku.

In 1908, Sarabski joined the newly established Haji Zeynalabdin Taghiyev Theatre, which was the first professional musical theatre in Azerbaijan. He quickly became one of its leading performers, particularly known for his role as Majnun in Uzeyir Hajibeyov's opera "Leyli and Majnun," which is considered the first opera in the Islamic world. His performance in this role was highly acclaimed and contributed significantly to the success of the opera.

Throughout his career, Sarabski worked to promote Azerbaijani music and theatre. He was involved in the establishment of the first musical schools in Baku and played a key role in the development of Azerbaijani opera and musical theatre. Sarabski was also a talented composer and playwright, creating several works that were performed in Baku's theatres.

Legacy

Huseyngulu Sarabski's contributions to Azerbaijani culture are widely recognized. He is remembered not only for his performances but also for his efforts to educate and promote young talents in the field of music and theatre. Sarabski's work laid the foundation for the flourishing of Azerbaijani performing arts in the 20th century.

After his death in 1945, Sarabski's legacy continued to influence Azerbaijani music and theatre. His name has been given to streets and cultural institutions in Azerbaijan, and his life and work are celebrated as part of the country's cultural heritage.

See Also

• Azerbaijani music
• Opera in Azerbaijan
• Uzeyir Hajibeyov
• Leyli and Majnun