From the first downbeat and the sounds of “Christmas Festival” by Leroy Anderson and the beautifully decorated stage, I knew the evening was special.
Fifty Six exceptional performers on the crowded multi level stage of the First Baptist Church of Glendale filled the souls of all who attended. Maestro Mikael Avetisian conducted with all of his being and brought to life the entire evening for all who attended this spectacular concert event.
In the busy and exhausting Christmas and New Year season all of us need moments where we can forget the dismal economic downturn, H1N1, politicians who lie and just be transported to a joyful place. The birth of Christ brings us joy and hope of salvation, our children and grandchildren and their excitement of the season warm us and great cultural evenings transport us to another level of being. That was what happened on Sunday night.
Tenor Edgar Brutyan, Sopranos Marine Abrahamyan-Abdasho and Narine Ojakhyan sang with mastery and skill receiving bouquets and the appreciation of the audience, but the evening was so special because of the Cilicia Symphony Orchestra.
Maestro Mikael Avetisian with his orchestra transported all of us to a joyous level. The selections of popular music, played with such exuberance, had many of us dancing in our seats. Favorites from Tchaikovsky, Khachaturian, Arno Babajanian and Komitas filled our souls.
My heart soared with the Sabre Dance, transporting me to another moment when the LA Philharmonic played under the direction of Varoujan Kojian and I danced Lezginka with my family and dance ensemble on the stage of the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion the music pulsing through us. I envisioned Hungarian Gypsies dancing the Czardas, elegant couples dancing to Viennese waltzes, and graceful Armenian women dancing our Nazelie dances.
The music just moved my soul. The evening ended much too soon with over four standing ovations and encores.
The community owes Bianca Manoukian and Teleculture 24 hour International Television a world of thanks for her vision, courage and willingness to present such a beautiful evening. I am still dancing…
I congratulate all..
I regret for not making the concert. I have bought 5 tickets but at the last minute an unexpected matter came up, and we were unable to attend this memorable concert..
Even though I regret not heraingto hear the beautiful sounds of the orchestra, i don’t regret that I lost money.. That money was a gift to the orchestra.. Hope they have more successful shows years to come.
Merry Christmas to all Armenians…:)
WOW!!! Bravo folks! Professional, entertaining and lively. Well done!
For those of us not in Glendale, where can I find the tour schedule for 2010?
Merry Christmas to all!