PRESIDENT SERZH SARGSYAN HOSTED THE MEMBER OF THE WORLD-FAMOUS DEEP PURPLE ROCK GROUP IAN GILLAN

president.am
March 28 2010
Armenia

Today, President Serzh Sargsyan hosted the member of the world-famous
Deep Purple rock group Ian Gillan and Director of the Rock Aid Armenia
project Jon Dee.

The President of Armenia welcomed the visit of the celebrated group
to the Republic of Armenia and noted that it was a great event in
our musical life.

Addressing the renowned musicians, Serzh Sargsyan said, "Naturally,
nobody doubts that you always perform in totally packed concert halls,
in the warm atmosphere of affection. However, in Armenia you will
witness a different kind of warmth: it is not only affection for talent
but also warmth of gratitude. We are grateful people and will not
forget that after the devastating earthquake of 1988 you were with us."

President Sargsyan thanked Jon Dee, who in those difficult times
brought together world-famous musicians so that through their music
they could help Armenia and her people to heal severe wounds inflicted
by the disaster. "You accomplished that difficult task brilliantly,"
stressed the President of Armenia.

"We are glad and we are happy that were able to have our modest input,"
the celebrated rock stars said. Ian Gillan added that he would never
forget his visit to Spitak twenty years ago and was happy that today
could bring them his music.

Speaking about the Yerevan concert, Ian Gillan and Jon Dee expressed
their admiration with the performance level of the Armenian State
Philharmonic orchestra and said that they were pleasantly surprised
that young and elderly people enjoy music with the same enthusiasm.

The President of Armenia and distinguished musicians conversed also
about the activities conducted in the framework of "Rock Aid Armenia"
program.

"We are always happy and proud to welcome you in our country,"
President Sargsyan underscored.