The “Cilicia” choir on September 6, 2025, held a concert at Sardarabad Hall in Kessab under the patronage of the Hamazkayin Regional Executive Board for Syria and organized by the Hamazkayin Kessab “Hamo Ohanjanian” Chapter. The choir was led by Kayane Simonian-Derian, with piano accompaniment by Yeva Bedrjikian for the first half and Shogher Ohanian-Kahkejian for the second.
In attendance were Rev. Fr. Yesayi Eordekian, the village priest, and his predecessor Rev. Fr. Antranig Kurumian; Pastor Shant Agishian; Fr. Nubar Melkonian, spiritual leader of the Catholic community; Garo Manjigian, member of the Hamazkayin Central Executive Board; Aram Aramian, member of the Hamazkayin Regional Executive Board for Syria; representatives of the relevant body and various organizations; and a large crowd of Kessab-Armenians and Armenians who had traveled from different provinces of Syria.
The concert began with the anthem of the Republic of Armenia, after which the master of ceremonies, Lara Bedourian, invited Alik Kortmosian to deliver the opening speech. In her address, Kortmosian highlighted the importance of song and music as integral parts of Armenian culture. They said, “The Hamazkayin Kessab ‘Hamo Ohanjanian’ chapter, faithful to its mission, has consistently stood by the Kessab-Armenian community to enrich their lives with Armenian culture.” They concluded by thanking everyone who spared no effort to make the concert a success.
Following a loud round of applause, the director of the “Cilicia” choir, Ms. Simonian-Derian, was invited to the stage. The choir presented a selection of excellent patriotic and folk songs in two parts, inspiring and energizing the audience.
