Fargana Qasimova
Fargana Qasimova is a young Azerbaijani performer known for her interpretation of mugham, which is similar to Uzbek and Tajik shashmaqam. Her father is the world renowned vocalist Alim Qasimova who is known for his experimental vocal style that challenges the boundaries of classic mugham. Fargana considers herself to be her father’s shagird (apprentice) despite her own talent and mastery of mugham. This father and daughter team typically sing together, trading verses back and forth and creating a lyrical musical dialogue.
In this excerpt, Fargana sings a song called Noleydi (What If) with a small ensemble. This piece is in two parts, the first of which begins with a folk bayati, a delicate seven syllable verse form that is typical of Azerbaijani oral tradition. The last line is a transition to the melodic style and rhythm of classical mugham; at this point in the song Fargana begins to improvise the vocals and leads the music in a passionate, more intense direction. The ensemble is made up of balaban, kamancha, tar, percussion, and voice. On this recording Fargana sings alone, without Alim, but you can hear him praising her singing in the background of the song.
Noleydi
What if...
I am in love when she awakes,
When she burns, I burn for her.
I wait beside your pillow, Lady,
I pray that she will awake.
What if, my love, what if...
I had jet black hair.
Even if everyone found me ugly,
I would be beautiful to my love.
What if...
I am in love when she awakes,
When she burns, I burn for her.
I wait beside your pillow, Lady,
I pray that she will awake.
What if, my love, what if...
I had jet black hair.
Even if everyone found me ugly,
I would be beautiful to my love.