An extraordinary concert of classical and Armenian music, in honor of the visiting Patriarch of Constantinople His Beatitude Archbishop Sahak II, was held on the evening of Friday, June 27.
The concert went forward under the auspices of the Eastern Diocese and its Primate, Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan, and with the sponsorship of the Armenian Benevolent Union (AGBU), at St. Leon Church in Fair Lawn, NJ.
Some 300 guests listened attentively to the program conceived and produced by master pianist and musicologist Şahan Arzruni. The Diocese’s “Patriarchal Visit Committee” co-chaired by Fr. Armash Bagdasarian and Tamar Kayserian organized the concert and a series of gatherings throughout the week of the visit.
On entering St. Leon Church, Patriarch Sahak was warmly received by pastor Fr. Diran Bohajian, and was enthusiastically welcomed by the concertgoers.
Leading musical artists gave exquisite performances of Armenian liturgical, folk, and classical pieces. These included Alvard Mayilyan, Narek Arutyunian, João Kouyoumdjian, Sami Merdinian, Suleman Tekalli, Tanner Manees, Caitlin Sullivan, Hayk Arsenyan, and Şahan Arzruni
Before each musician’s performance, Mr. Arzruni provided information about both the musicians and the songs.
To conclude the evening, Bishop Mesrop congratulated the artists and organizers. Patriarch Sahak also expressed gratitude to all those who contributed to and attended the event. He paid special tribute to Bolis-born Sahan Arzruni, extolling his long and distinguished career in music and his mighty efforts to bring the wonders of Armenian music to the world.
To conclude his remarks, the Patriarch offered a special prayer for Armenia. “I pray that God will bring our nation and our church to a peaceful harbor,” he said. “Our nation has suffered greatly, and our pain is always present in our songs and music. May we all pray tonight that peace may descend.”
At a reception following the concert, guests had an opportunity to meet the Patriarch and receive his blessing.