TURKISH PRESIDENTIAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA MAY TOUR ARMENIA

PanARMENIAN.Net
28.01.2009 15:32 GMT+04:00

/PanARMENIAN.Net/ While diplomatic efforts continue for the
normalization of relations between Turkey and Armenia, a cultural
rapprochement between the two nations is on the horizon as Turkey’s
Presidential Symphony Orchestra plans a visit to Yerevan, Hurriyet
Daily reports.

Music director of the orchestra, Rengim Gokmen, confirmed
the possibility of a visit. "The orchestra could travel to
Armenia. However, we should assess the process of improving relations
first," Gokmen said, adding that in the event of the normalization
of relations, such a tour could be held with the authorization of
President Abdullah Gul.

The rapprochement in the cultural arena between the two countries
dates back to 2005 when the Armenian State Opera and Ballet traveled in
Istanbul and performed at the Ataturk Cultural Center. However, due to
inadequate advertising, the performance did not attract large audience.