Asya Sultanova

Asya Bakhish Sultanova (16 October 1923 – 22 November 2021) was an Azerbaijani composer who is best known for her works for children and her collaboration with singer Muslim Magomayev.

Biography Sultanova was born in Baku. Her father was a geologist, and her mother was an English teacher. She studied at the Azerbaijan Conservatory from 1942 to 1944, and at the Moscow Conservatory, where she graduated in 1950. She remained in Moscow after graduating and lived there until her death. She was also mentored by Azerbaijani composer Kara Karaev.

Sultanova married, then divorced, musician and actor Vladimir Shainsky. She presented recitals throughout the Soviet Union, and worked at a film studio. She first heard Muslim Magomayev sing in 1963. They collaborated on three songs, and she introduced him to Armenian composer Arno Babajanyan.

Compositions Chamber Variations (violin and piano) Sonata No. 2 Sonatina'' Twelve Pieces for Children

Vocal “If You are With Me” (with Muslim Magomayev) “Russia” “Stars of Baku” (with Muslim Magomayev) “The Man I am Waiting For” (with Muslim Magomayev)