Gabala: The 2nd International 'Winter Tale' Music Festival is set to commence in Gabala on February 5, promising a vibrant array of performances over its four-day span.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the festival is organized by the Uzeyir Hajibeyli Baku Music Academy and supported by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, the Ministry of Culture, and Gilan. Traditionally a summer event since its inception in 2009, the Gabala Music Festival is making its winter debut for the second consecutive year.

The festival's schedule, centered at the Heydar Aliyev Congress Center in Gabala, offers a rich program catering to a range of musical preferences. Attendees can look forward to an eclectic mix of vocal and chamber instrumental evenings, solo performances, and unique themed nights such as 'Azerbaijan-Spain' and 'Baku-Naples.' These events, including flamenco-jazz performances, aim to provide warmth and vibrancy amidst the winter chill.

Opening festivities on February 6 will spotlight the Symphony Orchestra of the Azerbaijan State Academic Opera and Ballet Theater, conducted by Honored Artist Eyyub Guliyev. The concert will feature renowned performers Honored Artist Afag Abbasova, Aytac Shikhalizade, Azer Zade, and Mahir Taghizade, delivering works by both Azerbaijani and global composers such as Giacomo Puccini, Gioachino Rossini, and Giuseppe Verdi.

In addition to its musical offerings, the festival fosters intercultural dialogue, exemplified by the February 7 chamber music evening 'Baku-Naples: Musical Bridge,' showcasing compositions from both Azerbaijani and Italian artists.

The festival will conclude on February 8 with 'Azerbaijan-Spain: Two Countries, One Music,' a finale featuring flamenco-jazz performances by Spanish musicians and dancers, ensuring a memorable close to Gabala's 'Winter Tale.'