On January 8, 2024, the orchestral and opera conductor and choirmaster Haig Utidjian was honored with the “Medal of Merit” at the Vahram Utidjian Hall in Nicosia, Cyprus. Hamazkayin Central Executive Board chairperson Zakar Keshishian was on hand to award the medal.
Archbishop Khoren Toghtamadjian, Pontifical Vicar of Cyprus; Vartkes Mahdessian, member of parliament for Armenians in Cyprus; and other community leaders were in attendance.
Arto Tavitian, chairperson of the chapter executive board, made opening remarks. Sebouh Tavitian presented Haig Utidjian’s biography and accomplishments, especially in the study of Armenian medieval music. Mr. Keshishian spoke next and presented the medal. Finally, Mr. Utijian made some remarks.
The talented singer Sona Gargaloyan, accompanied by Lilia Tanielian-Khachadrian on piano, sang three songs by Gomidas. The Hamazkayin Sipan Dance Ensemble closed the artistic program with the Uzundara dance.
The archbishop made closing remarks and offered a prayer of dismissal. There was a reception. Gibrahayer EMagazine livestreamed the event.
