When recalling my first meeting with him during the reactionary years of the Tsarist regime, I once again bow before the unforgettable image of Uzeyir — a patriotic individual who loved his people with boundless devotion and dedicated his entire life to them.

My first meeting with Uzeyir, which left a profound mark on my heart, took place in 1912. Upon learning that I was in Baku, he became closely involved in my fate. Inspired by the success of his early musical works, Uzeyir took the manuscripts of his latest compositions and introduced me to his creative plans. This meeting was very sincere. Upon hearing that I had to interrupt my music education due to lack of funds, he immediately proposed organizing a performance and using the proceeds to send me back to my studies. These heartfelt moments took root in my heart for many years. Possessing a sensitive heart, Uzeyir extended his helping hand to me during the most difficult times of my life. Fate brought us together once again in Azerbaijan during the happy years of Soviet rule. I met Uzeyir again when I performed for the first time in the role of Gulchohra in "Arshin Mal Alan" at the Women’s Club in Baku. It was there that I heard his first positive remarks about my performance. His sincere praises encouraged me and gave me great inspiration for my future work. My friendship with my teacher, the sensitive and kind Uzeyir, began at that moment. This friendship lasted for 30 years.

From the very day the Azerbaijan State Conservatory was established, Uzeyir devoted all his attention to the training of young professionals and showed paternal care towards us, the teachers, as well.

Uzeyir’s benevolent recommendations on training and educating music professionals worthy of our great era became, in a sense, a guiding motto for us teachers.