Acclaimed Georgian composer Vazha Azarashvili dies aged 87

Georgian musician, composer, and educator Vazha Azarashvili has passed away at the age of 87, as confirmed by family members.

Throughout his illustrious career, Azarashvili was honored with numerous state awards, including the prestigious State Award of Georgia and the Zakaria Paliashvili Award. He was also granted the title of honorary citizen of Tbilisi and received the Order of Honor.

Azarashvili’s musical journey began with his graduation from the Vano Sarajishvili Tbilisi State Conservatory in 1961. He dedicated himself to teaching and served as a professor at the Sarajishvili Tbilisi State Conservatory. In 1994, he assumed the role of artistic director at the Georgian State Philharmonic.

Azarashvili’s repertoire encompassed a wide range of genres, from symphonic to popular music. He contributed to various theatrical productions and television films.