Author: Anna Tamamian

Music: Third Annual Day of Armenian Music to Feature Noted Armenian Composer, Artur Avanesov

Anna Tamamian


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In 2013, the Armenian Music Program was launched at UCLA with a single ensemble-in-residence, the string quartet VEM. The ensemble performed on campus and conducted a few outreach programs in what were admittedly modest beginnings.

A lot has changed in ten years. 

When the program hosts its third-annual Day of Armenian Music on May 26 at Schoenberg and Lani Hall, it marks just how far the program has come. The program now has two ensembles-in-residence that conduct educational outreach in the Los Angeles community. They also perform, record, and tour regularly across the United States and the world.

“I am very proud of how the Armenian Music Program has developed,” said Movses Pogossian, professor of violin and the program’s director. “Being able to preserve and amplify Armenian musical traditions in all their forms, whether classical or folk or jazz, has been so rewarding. It is really stimulating to work with all of these musicians and artists.”

The Day of Armenian Music features two primary events. The first is a number of workshops and performances with an educational focus. Students from local Armenian schools will be able to participate in a dance workshop, and will be treated to a concert in Schoenberg Hall by the Armenian Music Program’s resident Lernazang Ensemble featuring legendary folk singer Hasmik Harutyunyan. 

“I am sure our audience will appreciate seeing Armenian folk instruments such as the double-reeded duduk or the stringed kamancha performed live by masters Emmanuel Hovhannisyan and Vardan Baghdasaryan” said Melissa Bilal, the associate director of the Armenian Music Program.  The concert will also showcase the 2022-23 recipients of the VEM Fellowship for the Study and Performance of Armenian Music, Adam Frary and Max Ary. 

The day will culminate in a concert at 5:00 p.m. featuring the day’s special guest, pianist and composer Artur Avanesov. The concert will be preceded by a “meet the artist” session, a panel including Avanesov and UCLA composer Ian Krouse.

“Avanesov’s music is beautifully transparent, always impeccably crafted, and transcending both the performer and the listeners alike into a joyful state of wonder from the beginning to the end” said Pogossian.   

Artur Avanesov

A highly regarded composer, Avanesov was born in 1980 in Moscow and trained in composition at the Yerevan State Conservatory in Armenia from 1997-2002. His music, both his compositions and work as a piano performer, can be found on the Deutsche Grammophon label and Albany Records, along with others. 

The concert will be performed by the VEM Ensemble, with special guest Varty Manouelian, violinist for the Los Angeles Philharmonic and a lecturer in violin performance at the School of Music.  It will feature premiers of work by Avanesov and Jahan Raymond, who was the winner of the 2023 Tigran Mansurian Competition. Concert program will also include works by Khosrovitukhd, Koharik Gazarossian, and Edward Mirzoyan as well as a folk song collected by Mihran Toumajan arranged by VEM cellist Niall Tarō Ferguson. 

“The Day of Armenian Music reflects our aspirations for creating a vibrant Armenian music scene on UCLA campus,” said Bilal. “We are looking forward to spending a whole day sharing music and dance with our enthusiastic audience of all ages.”

https://schoolofmusic.ucla.edu/third-annual-day-of-armenian-music/









Rhode Island remember Armenian Genocide

Anna Tamamian



 

 Gino DeAngelis
Mayor Brett Smiley spoke at the remembrance ceremony for 
the 108th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. (Owen Fraga/WLNE)

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Rhode Island officials gathered at the Sts. Vartanantz Armenian Apostolic Church to commemorate the 108th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide.

Mayor Brett Smiley, Senator Jack Reed and Governor Dan McKee joined the Armenian Martyrs’ Memorial Committee to remember the 1.5 million people who died in the Armenian Genocide of 1915.

The keynote address was given buy historian and sociologist Dr. Taner Akçam, who is one of the first Turkish intellectuals to acknowledge and openly discuss the genocide.

Azerbaijan rebukes France in dispute with Armenia over Nagorno-Karabakh

Anna Tamamian

By Mark Armstrong  with AFP  •  Updated: 28/04/2023 – 13:36

As French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna visits the South Caucasus, Paris is accused of not using its influence on Armenia in the ongoing dispute with Azerbaijan over the Nagorno-Karabakh region.

Azerbaijan has accused France of not doing enough to calm tensions in the South Caucasus. 

The rebuke comes as French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna arrived in the region on Wednesday amid renewed arguments between Azerbaijan and Armenia over the long-disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh.

The two countries have fought two wars over the mountainous enclave of Karabakh, and after the latest bout of fighting in 2020, Moscow brokered a ceasefire. 

France has a large Armenian minority, and President Emmanuel Macron has sought to retain Paris’s influence over resolving the decades-long Karabakh conflict.

But in the Azeri capital Baku on Thursday, Azerbaijan’s Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov spoke to reporters alongside Colonna claiming that France has not used its influence with Armenia.

 “Over these past years, France has never appealed to Armenia,” said Bayramov.

Although France is one of the international mediators in the conflict, Baku and Moscow have recently accused Paris of undermining the peace process.

However, the French foreign minister said that while she believed peace is still possible, Azerbaijan and Armenia could do better in trying to end the conflict.

“Progress towards peace requires the renunciation of the use of force and even the threat of force,” said Colonna, “and this is a message that applies to both parties. I could also refer to rhetoric that feeds distrustful behaviours where we need to find the path of trust.”

The latest tensions between the two countries flared up last weekend when Azerbaijan set up a checkpoint on the Lachin corridor, the only land link between Armenia and Azerbaijan’s Armenian-majority region. 

On Thursday, Bayramov said that Azerbaijan had every right to set up the checkpoint on “its territory” and the move was in line with its constitution.

He accused Armenia of using the land link to bring in “arms and ammunition” to Karabakh.

Earlier in the day Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan called for “a wider international presence” in Karabakh and the Lachin corridor.

He has repeatedly accused Russian peacekeepers of failing to protect ethnic Armenians living in the breakaway region.

https://www.euronews.com/2023/04/28/azerbaijan-rebukes-france-in-dispute-with-armenia-over-nagorno-karabakh 


French Foreign Minister in Jermuk to see aftermath of 2022 Azerbaijani attack

Anna Tamamian

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 11:11,

YEREVAN, APRIL 28, ARMENPRESS. French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna has visited the town of Jermuk in Armenia to see on the ground the consequences of the Azerbaijani attack in September of 2022.

FM Colonna was briefed on the situation by Major-general Edward Asryan, the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Armenia.

Major-general Asryan told FM Colonna that on September 13-14, 2022, the Azerbaijani armed forces launched an attack against the sovereign territory of Armenia from five different directions: two directions in Syunik Province, two directions in Gegharkunik Province, and one direction in Vayots Dzor Province. Azerbaijan used rocket-artillery strikes and UAVs in targeting both military and civilian structures.

“Unfortunately our military suffered casualties, there were civilian deaths as well. We also had territorial losses. Now, the adversary is deployed on sovereign territory of Armenia in 139 square kilometers area,” the Major-general said, adding that civilian infrastructures in the resort town were severely damaged, and the ropeway is still closed.

In the direction of Jermuk, the Azeri forces invaded into territory of Armenia on an area of over 60 square kilometers. The invasion’s front was 11 kilometers, with a depth of 8 kilometers.

The Azeri military began its first steps after the 2020 war in May of 2021. “In 2021 their actions were similar to fulfilling objectives with the use of soft power. But on September 13-14 of 2022 it was a military aggression against the Republic of Armenia,” Asryan told the French Foreign Minister.

Asryan showed to the French FM the Armenian-Azerbaijani border prior to the Azeri attack and where the Azeri troops are deployed now.

[see video]

Nagorno Karabakh Foreign Minister holds online discussion with Russian political analysts

Anna Tamamian

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 10:27,

YEREVAN, APRIL 21, ARMENPRESS. Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh) Sergey Ghazaryan held an online meeting with Russian political analysts and experts.

During the discussion, FM Ghazaryan presented the situation resulting from Azerbaijan’s ongoing blockade of Artsakh, the foreign ministry of Nagorno Karabakh said in a press release.

Various issues related to the blockade, as well as regional and geopolitical developments were discussed at the meeting.

Russian peacekeepers celebrate Easter in Artsakh

Anna Tamamian
NEWS.am
Armenia –
10:24, 16.04.2023

The servicemen of the Russian peacekeeping contingent in Artsakh celebrated the Resurrection Sunday (Easter), Peacekeeper Telegram channel reports.

“The main attribute of the holiday was delivered to Armenia on a military transport aircraft. Easter breads were provided to the peacekeepers by the “We are United” multinational project and the Main Military-Political Directorate of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation. The Easter treat was blessed and delivered to all observation posts. Thus, each serviceman was able to celebrate one of the main Orthodox holidays,” the message says.

New Ombudsperson says will strive to achieve public tolerance and solidarity

Anna Tamamian

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 11:07,

YEREVAN, APRIL 13, ARMENPRESS. The new Ombudsperson of Armenia, Anahit Manasyan, issued a statement on assuming office on Thursday.

Manasyan, who served as Deputy Prosecutor General until now, was sworn in as Human Rights Defender on April 11 after passing a confirmation vote in parliament.

Below is the full statement issued by Manasyan.

“ Dear compatriots,

In this period full of challenges for our motherland, I have taken on the mission of Human Rights Defender with serious responsibility.

I will strive to use all my knowledge and experience for the improvement of the mechanisms for protection of human rights in the Republic of Armenia.

When I was thinking about taking on this responsibility, I began to analyze the values I hold. They have accompanied me since my childhood, thanks to the upbringing I received. I have never betrayed those principles, namely: kindness, compassion for people and their fates, humanity, dignity, justice, honesty and infinite faith in knowledge.

It is important to note that the position of Human Rights Defender is not a political one. The process of the latter’s election and tenure cannot be like that either. Hence, all my activities will be structured with that idea in mind.

I will strive to make the Human Rights Defender Institution a platform on the way to achieve public tolerance and solidarity, keeping it free from all possible political speculations.

My primary goal is to create an environment of respect for human dignity and rights in an atmosphere of public tolerance, bearing in mind the importance of the principle of separation and balance of powers.

I do not consider making critical statements to be the only tool I will use in my position as the Human Rights Defender. I will give special importance to the mechanisms of mediation between the public and state bodies (officials), as well as to the formation of a proper atmosphere for the protection of human rights through education.

I am sure that at this difficult stage, the priority goal for all of us should be to honestly look at our problems and find solutions for them with joint efforts, in an atmosphere of mutual respect and cooperation.

I believe that violence does not lead to any end result. At the same time, I am convinced that it is possible to win only by maintaining dignity.

And in this context, I emphasize that each of us individually, as well as we as a collective society, should do everything to preserve our dignity.

I will try to show the rest of my vision and values with my work.

Thank you!”

Armenian Nursing Home Resident Anahid Khanbegian Turns 100!

Anna Tamamian
Debbie Weisberg,Community Contributor

Surrounded by family members, staff, residents, and friends, Anahid enjoyed the day’s festivities, which included flowers, decorations, homemade chocolate pudding, cakes, ice cream and gifts. But most of all, she beamed with happiness being with her family. Anahid was thrilled to have her son Dichran, daughter-in-law Sandra, her grandson Peter Khanbegian and his wife Kwan, her niece Linda, and her husband Dennis Tarzian, on hand for the festivities.

Born on March 2, 1923, in Portland, Maine, Anahid (Parnagian) Khanbegian was always an active, happy child. After graduating from high school, Anahid met and married Hrayr (Harry) in 1946. They first lived in Brooklyn, NY and then relocated to Massachusetts, where they raised their son Dickran in Roslindale. Anahid spent 66 years in Roslindale, working as a hairdresser with her aunt Arousyag, her father Asadour and her uncle Dickran, both of whom were barbers, at the family-owned “Metropolitan Barbershop.” The shop was located at the center of Metropolitan Avenue and Washington Street. Anahid also worked for McGraw Hill/Dodge Reports as a researcher and at “Diane’s Bakery” in Roslindale Square. It was at the bakery that Diane developed her legendary “sweet tooth!” Family was always important to Anahid and she made it a priority to take good care of her mother and her father throughout their lives.

A resident at the Armenian Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for the past three years, Anahid is a favorite among both residents and staff members. Salpy Yeterian, Activities Director at the Armenian Nursing Center, noted that Anahid has not slowed down at all, even at 100 years of age. “Anahid never misses the daily activities,” remarked Salpy. “Her favorites are Trivia, Bingo, religious services, and Resident’s Council. Musical activities, however, top the list. If there’s any kind of music playing, you can be assured Anahid will be there, swaying to the melodies. She loves music.”

Anahid is very proud of her Armenian heritage, praying in Armenian, listening to Armenian music, and savoring the traditional foods. In addition, she loves anything chocolate. Anahid can often be found snacking on Hershey kisses, chocolate ice cream or chocolate pudding.

Life at the Armenian Center provides Anahid with socialization and support. She is beloved by residents and staff alike. “We appreciate all the staff does to elevate the care, maintenance of the Armenian Home for the elderly,” said Anahid’s niece, Linda Tarzian.

Salpy explained Anahid’s personality best. “Anahid is always cheerful and friendly,” stated Salpy Yeterian. “In fact, her favorite term of endearment is ‘honey.’ Every morning I end morning announcements by saying ‘Have a nice day and God bless you.’ Anahid never fails to respond first, always with, ”God bless you too honey.” For Salpy, it’s a wonderful way to start each day!

https://patch.com/massachusetts/jamaicaplain/armenian-nursing-home-resident-anahid-khanbegian-turns-100

Former Los Angeles Armenian mafia leader sentenced to 40 years in prison over multi-billion dollar biofuel tax scheme

Anna Tamamian

April 8 2023
Laura Coffey

LOS ANGELES (KABC) — A former Los Angeles Armenian mafia leader was sentenced on Friday to 40 years in prison for his role in a multi-billion dollar scheme to rip off American taxpayers.

Lev Aslan Dermen, also known as Levon “The Lion” Termendzhyan, was convicted of conspiring with members of a polygamous Utah sect known as “The Order” for one of the most daring tax frauds in history.

He was found guilty after a seven-week trial of conspiracy to commit letter fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering and money laundering.

Dermen was a Bel Air billionaire and gas station tycoon when he teamed up with members of the polygamous Kingston clan.

According to the Ministry of JusticeCourt documents and testimony from Dermen’s 2020 trial show that from 2010 to 2018, Dermen conspired with various members of the Kingston family to fraudulently claim more than $1 billion in recoverable renewable fuel tax credits.

The IRS eventually disbursed more than $511 million in loans to Washakie Renewable Energy, a Utah biodiesel company owned by Jacob and Isaiah Kingston.

The Kingstons split the fraud proceeds among themselves and Dermen, the DOJ said.

Jacob Kingston, 46, closed a plea deal and testified against Dermen, telling jurors they had more money than they could launder, so they began selling luxury items like Lamborghinis and Bugattis along with private jets, yachts and mansions in the city Buy Turkey, Utah and Huntington Beach.

Prosecutors said Dermen employed a team of corrupt law enforcement officials, including former DHS agent Felix Cisneros, former Glendale detective John Balian and former FBI agent Babak Broumand.

In addition to the prison sentence, Dermen was ordered to pay the IRS $442,615,520 in compensation and had a monetary judgment in excess of $181 million.

Jacob Kingston, who was a co-owner and CEO of Washakie, was ordered to pay the IRS $511 million. The court also imposed a $338 million monetary judgment on him. He was also sentenced to 18 years in prison on Friday.

“The substantial penalties imposed by the court reflect the staggering magnitude of the defendants’ nearly decade-long tax fraud program — one of the largest of all time,” said Stuart M. Goldberg, deputy assistant attorney general for the Department of Justice’s tax division. “Dermen and members of the Kingston family cost law-abiding taxpayers more than $500 million and attempted to steal twice that. They also tried to cover their tracks by running billions of dollars in transactions through the banking system and fuel purchases and oil used tankers to trick their plant into actually making and selling biodiesel fuel eligible for IRS credits. Tax prosecutors and IRS-CI special agents have not only unraveled this scheme – they have uncovered, traced and recovered millions of dollars of revenue that was being kept secret in Turkey, the United States and elsewhere.”

https://worldtimetodays.com/former-los-angeles-armenian-mafia-leader-sentenced-to-40-years-in-prison-over-multi-billion-dollar-biofuel-tax-scheme/


IBRD signs €92.3 million loan agreement with Armenia for Green, Resilient and Inclusive Development Policy Operation

Anna Tamamian

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 14:12, 4 April 2023

YEREVAN, APRIL 4, ARMENPRESS. Armenia and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) have signed a €92.3 million loan agreement for the Armenia Green, Resilient and Inclusive Development Policy Operation project.

The agreement was signed by Finance Minister of Armenia Vahe Hovhannisyan and World Bank Armenia Country Manager Caroline Geginat. The IBRD is a member of the World Bank Group.

The budget support resources will be directed for funding the deficit envisaged under the law on the 2023 state budget, the finance ministry said.

The operation supports the 2021-26 Program of the Government of the Republic of Armenia and is aimed at promoting green, resilient, and inclusive development by: (i) improving the regulatory framework for environmental management to help Armenia mitigate and adapt to the pressures of climate change; (ii) enhancing equity and promoting human capital development; and (iii) supporting the anti-corruption framework and justice sector efficiency.