Tofiq Ibrahim oghlu Mirzayev, a renowned musician, jazz performer, director, actor, and People’s Artist of Azerbaijan who lived in Israel, has passed away.
According to available information, the distinguished artist died last night in the city of Arad, Israel, at the age of 95. Tofiq Mirzayev suffered a stroke two months ago, and his condition worsened in recent days. He was unable to make a full recovery.
Born in 1932 in Azerbaijan’s Gadabay District, Tofiq Mirzayev devoted his life to the arts. For many years, he performed with the State Symphony Orchestra under the leadership of Niyazi and collaborated with the legendary representative of Azerbaijani jazz Vagif Mustafazadeh, as well as Parviz Rustambayov, Tofiq Shabanov, the “Gaya” vocal-instrumental ensemble, and Muslim Magomayev.
In addition to his musical career, Tofiq Mirzayev also worked as a director at Azerbaijan Television. The music programs he created and the documentary films dedicated to prominent figures of Azerbaijani culture hold a special place in the history of the country’s television broadcasting.
He also earned widespread admiration as an actor. He created memorable characters in such films as The Last Night of Childhood, Front Without Flanks, Investigation, Nasimi, Find the Girl, A Mesozoic Story, Tahmina, and others.
Since 1994, Tofiq Mirzayev had been living in the city of Arad, Israel, and remained devoted to Azerbaijani culture and art until the end of his life.
The funeral ceremony will take place today at 5:30 p.m. local time at the Arad City Cemetery.
The passing of Tofiq Mirzayev is a great loss for Azerbaijani culture. He will always be remembered with respect and admiration for his rich creative legacy, his contributions to the arts, and the artistic traditions he helped cultivate.
The staff of Jnews.az extends its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and prays for God’s mercy upon his soul.