“This program embodies me and my musical journey,” announced flutist Dr. Jeiran Hasan, a gifted Azerbaijani American musician, as she welcomed her audience to the “Traveling with Flute” concert tour in Texas on August 8 and 9, 2024. A distinguished flutist and proud representative of Azerbaijani American heritage, Dr. Hasan seeks to amplify the voices of living women composers. The “Traveling with Flute” concert celebrated and showcased the works of women composers from Azerbaijan and the United States, including Lala Jafarova (1966), Elnara Dadashova (1952), Rahilia Hasanova (1951–2024), Adrienne Albert (1941), Amanda Harberg (1973), Valerie Coleman (1970), and Lawren Brianna Ware (1994). Collaborating with pianists Dr. Gia Jiha Choi and Dr. Nataliya Sukhina, Dr. Hasan delivered performances rich in subtle musical nuances, leaving the audience captivated and wanting more.
Dr. Hasan is a prominent figure in the Azerbaijani American music scene and currently serves as an Assistant Professor of Flute at Utah State University. An internationally sought-after performer and educator, she brings a unique blend of technical mastery and exceptional artistry to her work, inspiring audiences and students worldwide.
The “Traveling with Flute” concert series was organized by the Azerbaijan-American Music Foundation and held at University Park United Methodist Church in Dallas and Memorial Drive United Methodist Church in Houston. The program achieved its mission to educate, connect, and broaden cultural horizons while offering attendees a unique musical experience.
At the start of the concert, Dr. Jamila Javadova-Spitzberg, Founder and Executive Director of the Azerbaijan-American Music Foundation, shared insights about the organization’s purpose, ongoing programs, and future plans. She extended her gratitude to Dr. Clinton Bray, Organist and Associate Director of Music at University Park UMC, and Dr. Stephen Martin, Director of Music and Fine Arts at Memorial Drive UMC, for their dedicated efforts in ensuring the seamless execution of these exceptional events. Dr. Javadova-Spitzberg also expressed heartfelt thanks to the American Division of the Azerbaijan State Diaspora Committee for their steadfast support of the foundation’s initiatives.
Following the program, a small reception provided a warm setting for audience members and musicians to mingle, share their impressions, and engage in meaningful conversations about the music and its cultural significance.
