5 October 2016

The autumn cycle of AGBU Sofia Chamber Orchestra opened on September 24th and started with a concert marking several anniversaries: the 25 years of Independence of the Republic of Armenia – one day before the Bulgaria’s Independence Day, the 110 years of establishment of the Armenian General Benevolent Union Parekordzagan and the 10th anniversary of AGBU Sofia Chamber Orchestra.

The concert was attended in person by H.E. the Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia as well as by many guests and musicians. The focus of the program was set on the Armenian musical culture, interpreted by our special guests – Vache Hovayan – viola, Nara Arakelyan – piano, Yervand Margaryan – trumpet. Another musician played with our soloists – the Bulgarian Ventsislav Blagoev, well-known to our public as a master trumpet player. The program was diverse, from baroque to classical pieces for the different instruments. It reached its peak with the jazz piece “Smoke” by J. Kerry which closed the concert.

Both trumpet players Ventsislav Blagoev and Yervand Margaryan showed their mastership not just as classical performers but also as magnificent improvisers and jazzmen. The pianist, Nara Arakelyan, performed with a fine presence not only as a part of the ensemble but also as a solo player. Exceptional stage presence and viola handling was demonstrated by Vache Hovayan, inspiring deep emotion.

AGBU Sofia Chamber Orchestra conducted by its Maestro Bedros Papazyan filled the room with joy and spirit and allowed precise interpretations of styles and high professionalism from its musicians.

Wonderful music, performed by great musicians, to celebrate several anniversaries– what a wonderful start of the autumn concert cycle of AGBU Sofia Chamber Orchestra, which brings, already for 10 years, joy and musical delight to its audience!

Цанка Филипова