On Thursday, October 21st, the exquisite “Salle Belle Epoque” of the Hermitage Hotel in Monte Carlo resounded with the nostalgic sounds of the Armenian duduk (traditional woodwind instrument), artfully played by Mher, and of the qanun (string instrument similar to a zither) Narek played with such mastery and inspiration. That particular evening, Monaco-Armenia Children’s Fund hosted a gala evening entitled “Armenian Dreams”, on one hand, to celebrate the 19th Independence of Armenia, and on the other hand, to present some of Armenia’s most wonderful talents, keen as always to promote the invaluable Armenian artists this country is so rich with. Monaco-Armenia Children's Fund organized, on the occasion of the 19th Anniversary of the Armenian Independence, a Gala Evening at the Hotel Hermitage, Salle Belle Epoque, in Monaco Monte Carlo. Dedicated to the “Alaverdi” project for the construction of a pediatric rehabilitation center in the region of Lori, close to the Georgian border. Seriously affected by the pollution of a copper factory, this region counts an important number of children suffering from congenital anomalies and associated handicaps, practically devoid of all medical care. They are facing, in the absence of any pediatric center, a short life of pain and isolation. Our partner, Dr. Ara Babloyan, coming directly from Yerevan, was among the guests to present the project. We were also honored by the presence of His Excellency the Armenian Ambassador in France, Viguen Tchitetchian, as well as of Mr. Stéphane Valeri, Monegasque Health and Social Affairs Minister, and other local dignitaries. The gala was rich in intense moments, with the famous Armenian singer Nune Yesayan, in duo with her husband, the young but so talented musicians from Armenia, Narek (quanun), Mher (duduk) and Armine (piano), overflowing the room with emotion and mastery, Elen, one of the best Latin dancers in Armenia, who charmed the audience with her grace and the roses she offered to all the ladies present. True to its engagement towards international music, Monaco-Armenia Children’s Fund reserved a third surprise to its guests, in the person of the German born soprano and jazz woman Wiltrud Weber, accompanied by the violinist Alison Zlotow, both coming from New York City. Their lyrical recital, with jazzy house rhythms, created a great moment of musical intensity. |
