June 5 - national day of mourning in Moldova for composer Eugen Doga
June 5 was declared a day of national mourning in the Republic of Moldova in honor of composer Eugen Doga, whose funeral will take place on that day. President Maia Sandu signed the decree today, June 4, expressing deep sadness over the composer’s passing. Doga made significant contributions to the development of both national and universal musical art and played a vital role in promoting the culture and image of the Republic of Moldova on the international stage.
The document states that the State Flag will be flown at half-mast across all localities in the country and at diplomatic and consular missions of the Republic of Moldova abroad. Additionally, a moment of silence will be observed at 12:00 in memory of the composer.
On June 5, the Public Broadcaster Teleradio-Moldova will screen archival materials dedicated to Eugen Doga's life and work.
Public authorities, enterprises, and organizations are encouraged to refrain from holding entertainment events, and mass media outlets are advised to consider the significance of this day when preparing publications and programming.
It is important to remember that composer and academician Eugen Doga passed away on Tuesday, June 3, at 88.
Born on March 1, 1937, in the village of Mocra in the Rîbnița district, Eugen Doga was a symbol of Moldovan culture and one of the most esteemed figures in Eastern European music. Over his career, which spanned more than six decades, he composed music for films, ballets, choirs, and instrumental pieces. He gained international recognition for his soundtracks for films directed by Emil Loteanu, including "The Fiddlers," "My Sweet and Tender Beast," and "Maria, Mirabela." The waltz from "My Sweet and Tender Beast" was included by UNESCO in its list of musical masterpieces of the 20th century and has been performed on stages worldwide, including at the Olympic Games.
Eugen Doga composed the music for the ballet "Luceafărul," inspired by Mihai Eminescu's poem, along with countless symphonic, choral, and chamber works. He created music for over 200 films, making him one of the most prolific composers in the former Soviet Union.
Eugen Doga received numerous honors, including the title of People's Artist of the USSR, the Order of the Republic of Moldova, and the Order of the Star of Romania. He was not only an exceptional creator but also a champion of Romanian and European cultural values.
