The 2rd Hamazkayin Eastern USA Music Festival officially opened today in Washington, D.C., welcoming more than 40 young musicians for an immersive three-day program dedicated to musical excellence, cultural enrichment, and Armenian heritage.
Organized by the Hamazkayin Eastern USA Regional Executive, the festival brings together talented young performers from across the Armenian community to study, collaborate, and grow under the guidance of internationally acclaimed artists and educators.
This year’s distinguished faculty includes Maestro Zakar Kechichian—conductor, musicologist, duduk and shvi performer, and Chair of the Hamazkayin Central Executive; Kevork Kechichian, musician and musicologist; Sevak Avanesyan, internationally renowned cellist, founder of the Kapan International Music Festival, and soloist with the Royal Danish Opera; Serouj Kradjian, acclaimed pianist, composer, and Grammy Award nominee; and Diana Adamyan, award-winning violinist and laureate of numerous international competitions.
Throughout the festival, participants will take part in instrument-specific workshops, masterclasses, rehearsals, and collaborative sessions led by the guest artists. These intensive learning opportunities will allow young musicians to refine their technical skills, deepen their musical understanding, and gain valuable performance experience.
Beyond its educational mission, the festival serves as a vibrant celebration of Armenian culture. Conducted in an Armenian-speaking environment, the program encourages participants to strengthen their connection to their language, heritage, and cultural identity while engaging in a high-level artistic experience.
The festival will conclude with a series of participant performances showcasing the progress achieved during the program, followed by a special closing concert featuring the guest artists. The concert will offer audiences an opportunity to experience the richness and beauty of Armenian music performed by some of today’s most accomplished Armenian musicians.
This year’s festival is particularly noteworthy for welcoming not only Armenian participants but also a group of non-Armenian youth. Through their involvement in the program, these participants will have the opportunity to discover Armenian culture, music, and traditions firsthand. Their presence further enriches the festival’s mission, transforming it into a meaningful space for cultural exchange and mutual understanding.
In addition to the music workshops and masterclasses, participants will also take part in Armenian dance instruction. These sessions will introduce them to one of the most vibrant expressions of Armenian cultural heritage, allowing them to experience Armenian traditions through movement, rhythm, and community participation.
The enthusiasm and commitment demonstrated by participants, parents, volunteers, and organizers alike already reflect the success of this initiative. More than a music festival, it is a meaningful investment in the next generation of Armenian artists and cultural ambassadors, ensuring that Armenian music and culture continue to flourish for years to come.
Hamazkayin extends its sincere appreciation to the guest artists, organizers, volunteers, parents, and especially the young participants whose passion and dedication make this festival a truly inspiring celebration of Armenian musical and cultural life.
