Belmont Citizen-Herald, MA
Nov 18 2004
Banquet, concert to benefit Armenian music students
The first annual banquet of the Hovanness Badalian Music Fund will be
held on Saturday, Dec. 4, at the Hellenic Cultural Center in
Watertown.
H. E. Arman Kirakossian, Armenia’s ambassador to the U.S., will
be in attendance and composer Konstantin Petrosian of Providence,
R.I. will be the master of ceremonies. Among the highlights of the
evening: the first U.S. appearance of folk singer Artur Anushavanian;
soprano Nune Karapetian performing with pianist Nune Hakopian; and
recognition of Boston’s own Arev Armenian Folk Ensemble with an
Appreciation Award.
The goal of the fund is to provide merit-based scholarships to
children enrolled in Armenian music education programs worldwide. The
fund will also provide assistance to individuals and organizations
that create material and training programs for children.
The fund is named in honor of Hovanness Badalian, who played a
significant role in educating Armenian children and young adults.
Through his songs he spread the spirit of the Armenian culture around
the world. Upon his passing in 2001 composer Vardan Ajemian said, “We
lost a great artist. He was the father of Armenian folk songs. We
lost a very honest man.”
Armenia celebrated Badalian’s 80th birthday last month at the
National Opera in Yerevan with the participation of prominent artists
including his daughter, opera singer Nuneh Badalian.
For information and to make a contribution to the fund call
617-331-0426, or write to HBMF, P.O. Box 733, Watertown, MA 02471.