French-Armenian composer Michel Legrand, who won three Oscars during a career spanning more than half a century, has died aged 87. Legrand, who had been scheduled to hold concerts in Paris in April, died during the night, his spokesman told Agence France-Presse on Saturday.
In memory of the world-known musician, we recall his last visit to Armenia in 2012. Legrand’s visit came in the scope of the Yerevan 6th International Music Festival. The Armenian Philharmonic Orchestra and City Lights Entertainment (London) gave a joint concert in honor of his on his 80th birthday.
During interactions with Armenian media, Legrand spoke much of his Armenian roots and feelings toward the second motherland.
To remind, Legrand’s maternal grandfather – Sarkis Der Mikaelian was Armenian. In 1917, he fled the Armenian genocide and settled in France.
On Armenia
Armenia holds a special place in my heart. My Armenian grandpa died in 1942. As I lived for I 10 years with him learnt much about Armenia. He used to show the chords on piano to accompany Armenian national music instruments. His love toward Armenia was filled with sorrow. When I visited Armenia for the first time in 2009, I met with my extended family members I had never heard before. I have equally suffered along with Armenians for past grievances,” Legrand said.
Оn age
I do not feel fettered because of my age. In general, I'm not interested in birthday celebrations. I consider them as routine things, stages that pass.
On the past life
I wouldn't like to go through certain periods of my life as I am not attached to the past.
On key to happiness
I find it difficult to answer what the happiness is…For me, may be it is about dedication of your life to music. Music is my passion, that’s why I create, improvise and work so hard.
To note, during the visit Legrand was hosted by then president Serzh Sargsyan. “Every time I have a chance to visit Armenia, I feel, I return back to my roots. It’s cordial for me and Armenian music flows in my blood,” M. Legrand said at the meeting.