An event took place within the walls of the Maya Kulieva Turkmen National Conservatory that proved that true art is timeless. The 270th anniversary of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was celebrated with such grandeur and warmth that the birthday boy, renowned for his easygoing nature, love of jokes, and boisterous company, would surely have been absolutely delighted.

Stella Faramazova, the inspirer and organizer of this musical tribute, managed to perform a small miracle. She transformed a strict academic evening into a lively, sparkling celebration devoid of formality. So many classical music fans gathered that the conservatory's hall could barely cope with the influx of guests: when the stalls ran out, the audience occupied the balcony and aisles, trying to catch every note from every available corner.

The concert program was composed with true Mozartian wit. The evening opened with Begench Gayipov's celebrated Don Giovanni aria, performed with champagne. This choice immediately set the right tone: instead of formal formality, a truly festive atmosphere reigned.

Later, Begench returned to the stage as the frisky Figaro, and international competition winner Stella Faramazova masterfully maintained this theatrical spirit at the piano. The operatic characters alternated so effortlessly, as if Figaro's wedding and abduction from the seraglio were unfolding before the audience's eyes.

The female roles were a true highlight of the program. Arzygul Gylydzhova brilliantly performed the spirited role of Barbarina and touched hearts with the romance "Oh, Zither, You Are Mine," accompanied by Enedzhan Nuryeva. Honored Artist of Turkmenistan Ayna Seyitkulieva delivered a masterful performance—from the profound drama of the Countess to the transcendent passages of Constanza. Her duet with Arzygul as Marselina and Susanna added a healthy dose of humor and a vibrant stage presence to the concert.

The instrumental pieces kept the audience breathless, revealing the many facets of his genius. International competition laureate Ainur Otuzova, in the 8th Sonata, reminded the audience that Mozart is not only graceful melodies but also a powerful, steely character. Delphic Games laureate Seyran Ataniyazov's violin sang so convincingly in the 3rd Concerto that even the most discerning connoisseurs in the audience nodded approvingly. Leyli Salykhova, with her filigree Rondo, and Begench Moshiyev, whose Bastien added a touch of noble romanticism to the evening, were also on hand.

Bakhar Durdyeva's vocal magic in Susanna's aria and the romance was particularly captivating. And when People's Artist of Turkmenistan Gulnar Nuryeva and Honored Artist Leyli Okdirova sang the famous "Veterok," it was as if a fresh Mediterranean breeze swept through the hall.

The final chord was reserved for the Tahir Atayev Orchestra. After a poignant "Adagio" with Jemal Takhyrova, Honored Artist of Turkmenistan Vladimir Mkrtumov took the stage. Their 23rd concerto became a powerful exclamation point to the entire celebration.

This was Mozart without the extra powder—lively, energetic, and relatable to every modern listener. The audience left with the clear feeling that 270 years is not an age, but simply a reason to once again confirm that Mozart still has the power to ignite human hearts.

Ayna SHIROVA