Harlem Jazz Series – Amina Figarova

Amina Figarova: From Baku to Jazz Stardom

Born in Baku, Azerbaijan, Amina Figarova began classical piano training at age six. Her musical path transformed dramatically after attending the 1988 Moscow Jazz Festival, leading her to study at Rotterdam Conservatoire and later join the Thelonious Monk Jazz Colony in Aspen, Colorado.

Figarova’s most powerful compositions emerged from witnessing the September 11 attacks while performing at New York’s Blue Note Jazz Club. This experience inspired her acclaimed works September Suite and Blue Whisper, demonstrating her ability to transform trauma into meaningful music.

Recognized by Chicago critic Neil Tesser as a leading contemporary jazz composer, Figarova has released 17 albums over three decades. DownBeat magazine named her Rising Star Composer in both 2014 and 2015, celebrating her evolution from classical roots to mature jazz compositions that honor her Azerbaijani heritage.

📅 Date: September 26, 2025