The Hamazkayin Aleppo Chapter Jazz Ensemble once again brought together young art lovers, this time to honor the legendary Charles Aznavour on the centennial of his birth. The performed some of his songs, enjoyed the draw of his art, and became more familiar with episodes from his life.
The concert was held under the aegis of the Armenian Prelacy of Aleppo. The chapter Music Committee did the organizing work.
The prelate was represented at the event by Rev. Fr. Armen Kalajian; the Armenian Catholic Church by Rev. Fr. Gomidas Dadaghlian; the Armenian Evangelical community by Rev. Dr. Haroutune Selimian; and the Consulate General of Armenia in Aleppo by Davit Tadevosyan. Member of Parliament Maria Kaprielian was present. The prelacy and various other organizations were represented as well.
Sarin Boghosian, in an opening speech in Armenian, said the focus on Aznavour allowed the ensemble to celebrate a great star in the Armenian and international musical firmament. She said Armenians should be grateful to Aznavour.
Saro Ghazarian, in an opening speech in Arabic, said Aznavour was one of a kind. He also thanked the Syrian republic for accepting Armenians with open arms and for providing them with the necessary means for their physical and cultural well-being.
The curtain rose to reveal the ensemble, led by Dr. Raffi Abejian. The ensemble includes string, percussion, and brass as well as vocalists performing solos.
Emcee Vana Barmaksezian gave a brief biography of Aznavour and, between performances.
