The Hamazkayin Nicosia “Oshagan” Chapter on April 14, 2023, held a memorial event for respected Cyprus musician and teacher Vahan Bedelian. Some 45 people were present, among them catholicosal vicar Archbishop Khoren Doghramadjian, and the representative of the Armenian community in the Cyprus House of Representatives, Vartkes Mahdessian.
Chapter Executive Board chair Arto Tavitian made brief remarks and invited to the podium Vartan Tashjian, who had for many years served as director of the “Nareg” schools. The latter gave an inspiring speech about Vahan Bedelian the musician, the teacher, and the principal, focusing on his competence, kindness, and exemplary lifestyle. He said Bedelian had been the father of classical music in Cyprus; the country’s first classical ensemble and four-voice choir had been a result of his efforts.
The speaker told stories about the life of the great teacher, recalling a concert held for his 90th birthday by the government of Cyprus. Four of his world-famous students honored their teacher with a performance: Manoug Parikian, Haroutune Bedelian, Levon Chilingirian, and George Vass.
Vahan Bedelian’s grandson, Vahan Aynedjian, was invited to the podium. He showed a video with highlights from his grandfather's life. Grandson Simon Aynedjian presented a video in which Bedelian’s son Haroutune spoke about his father.
At the conclusion of the program, Zara Barkhoudarian and Edgar Evoyan performed Vahan Bedelian’s “Yes im Ashkharhi Areve Guzem” (I want the sun of my land) and “Yegeghetsin haygagan” (The Armenian church).
Closing the event, Arto Tavitian thanked the participants and especially Vartan Tashjian for his inspiring words.
