Under the patronage of the Minister of Culture, The High Institute of Music, in cooperation with the Embassy of the Republic of Armenia presented the Yerevan Chamber Choir in four concerts: two in Aleppo, one in Lattakia and the last one at the Faculty of Fine Arts Theatre and was conducted by Mr. Haroutiun Topikyan. Both the Choir and its conductor performed in many countries: Russia, USA, Norway, Germany, Italy, Lebanon etc.. and won many prizes. It consisted of 18 singers, soprano, alto, tenor and bass. They sang a Cappella. The first half of the evening was devoted to music by the famous Armenian composer S. S. Komitas (1869-1935) .

First they sang four sacred chorals: Kyrie eleison, Gloria, Sanctus and the whole world. These were most impeccably and beautifully sung and were received by high ovation from the audience that filled the auditorium. Then followed some eleven secular chorals: A Wedding cycle: From the sky and land; Thanks to King (the fiancé); Blessings to the newly married couple; Let me take my beloved; then a choral cycle: Why you entered Bingyol mountain? Susan the beautiful and Papuri then You are like a tree, stay unbending, the last was Lory gutanerg (the song of plough work) . The choir excelled in their singing. The songs were joyful, but at times serene or even sad. All were lively and enthusiastically sung. The audience gave high ovation to all of them. Thus ended the first half. After the intermission, the choir sang four folk songs arranged by E. Hovhannisyan (1930-1998). Mother Armenia, proud and glorious. It's snowing, serene, tender and innate, I have a home on seaside, happy and hilarious, Hop Narin, a dance. All were lovely and received high applause. Last were three songs by B. Kanachyan (1885-1957): March, Oror ( a lullaby) and Nanor (ceremonial). These too, aroused high and joyful ovation from the audience. The Armenian Ambassador presented a bouquet of red roses to the conductor. The audience kept applauding and the choir sang two encores. Thus ended one of the most enjoyable choral evenings in Damascus. Sincere thanks are expressed to the distinguished choir and conductor.

Best wishes and greetings are expressed to the Armenian people and looking forward to listen to more artists from Armenia. Until then all the best to all.

ST No. 7197 Monday 5th Nov 2007
Dr. Sadek Pharaon
spharmd2@scs-net.org