From September 20-26, 2024, a unique Choral Research Study Tour took place in Armenia, organized and coordinated by the International Association of the Armenian Culture under the label and accreditation of the European Choral Association.
During the research tour, 25 professionals, including choral conductors and musicians from Morocco, Estonia, Lebanon, Slovenia and Germany, visited Armenia to explore the characteristics of Armenian choral art, learn its history, changes over the centuries, contemporary composers' choral works, and the experience of Armenian conductors.
The program included:
-Lectures on the creation and development of choral art, and the ancient Armenian notational system (Khazagrutyun) with visual aids.
-Participation in the Liturgy at St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral.
-Attendance at various choir rehearsals and concerts.
-A roundtable discussion on the challenges faced by choirs.
-A city tour and visits to Tsitsernakaberd, the Komitas Museum Institute, the Yerevan Brandy Factory, the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin and meeting with Bishop Nathan, and visits to Matenadaran musesum, Garni-Geghard and the Megerian Carpet.
This type of research tour is being organized in Armenia for the first time and serves as a great opportunity to promote Armenian choral art, create a platform for collaboration between Armenian and foreign conductors and composers, which will be an important foundation for participating in various international projects in the future, increasing the interest of more professionals in Armenia, and presenting Armenian culture on an international level.
Meanwhile it was of great importance to organize the tour in such a way that Armenia and Armenian culture become recognizable and attractive through the prism of choral art in just a few days.
The main partners of the Armenian tour
"Faiha" National Choir of Lebanon,
Yerevan State University,
Ministry of Education, Science, Sports, and Culture of Armenia,
"Menq" Art collective,
"Baghdasaryan" branding studio,
Teryan Cultural Center,
"Taraz Art" design studio,
Armenian cognac factory
supporters;
International Federation for Chora Music
Armenian Choral Conductors’ Association
Armenian Choral Union
Armenian Coposers Union.
Video: https://youtu.be/7Cd6tt1VBJA
