Composer Eugen Doga died. Ministry of Culture: "He left today to compose music for angels"
Composer and academician Eugen Doga passed away today, June 3, 2025, at 88. The announcement was made by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Moldova through a message published on official Facebook page.
"Eugen Doga passed away today, leaving behind a legacy of music for the angels.
On this somber summer day, we mourn Eugen Doga's death. At a time when we should be celebrating life, we find ourselves saying goodbye to a man who transformed sound into light: the composer, the educator, and the cultural icon.
Eugen Doga brought us to the world's attention with his ethereal music, which resonates with Eminescu's spirit, evoking both joy and tears, waltzes and eternity. He now departs into heavenly silence," reads the message from the institution.
Eugen Doga, born on March 1, 1937, in Mocra, Rîbnița district, was a symbol of Moldovan culture and one of the most respected figures in Eastern European music. Over a career that spanned more than six decades, he composed music for films, ballets, choirs, and instrumental songs, creating a distinctive soundscape where sensitivity, romanticism, and folkloric roots intertwined harmoniously.
He gained international recognition through the soundtracks of films directed by Emil Loteanu, including “The Fiddlers,” “Tandra mea fiară,” and “Maria, Mirabela.” The waltz from “Tandra mea fiară” was included by UNESCO in its list of musical masterpieces of the 20th century and has been performed on stages worldwide, even at the Olympic Games.
Doga was the composer of the ballet "Luceafărul," inspired by Mihai Eminescu's poem, as well as countless symphonic, choral, and chamber works. He produced music for over 200 films and was one of the most prolific composers in the former Soviet Union.
Throughout his career, he 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. Doga was not only an exceptional creator but also a passionate advocate for Romanian and European cultural values. He consistently supported young musicians and promoted cultural unity between Moldova and Romania.
Despite his age, he remained active in recent years, participating in events, composing new music, and receiving recognition from cultural communities around the world. His last public appearances were in March and June 2025, when he was celebrated in Chișinău and at Bookfest in Bucharest.
Today, the Republic of Moldova loses an ambassador of its music and soul. However, Eugen Doga's legacy will continue to inspire future generations, transcending time and borders.
