Soprano Papian Dazzles at Armenian Night at Pops

Lockhart introduced Papian, a “distinguished classical artist” and later admiringly remarked, “It’s an honor to work with someone of her international stature.” In a glittery blue gown, the soprano had great range without a microphone and showed poise and solid voice in performing a variety of pieces.

The mystical Aria-Vocalise by Babadjanian was followed by the well-known Kilikia by Yeranian- Yekmalian. Catalani’s Ebben? Ne andro lontana, from “La Wally” was a dramatically expressed piece that drew huge applause and contrasted with Puccini’s O mio bambino caro, which she sang in a delicate, sensitive manner. Drinking Song, an upbeat and eclectic work by talented young composer John Sarkissian, premiered that evening to favorable review. Listeners gave him a big hand when Lockhart acknowledged him in the audience.

During the evening, Lockhart also acknowledged Ara Arakelian of FACS, the 20th anniversary of the independence of Armenia and the passing of Dr. Keran Chobanian, a FACS founder and supporter. “The Armenian Community, the BSO and Pops lost a great friend,” expressed Lockhart.

The final part of the program had an unexpected variation with bluegrass pieces performed by the talented Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder. Skaggs explained the personal significance in the touching pieces he and his fellow musicians performed with great skill. The audience seemed energized by the grand songwriting, immense talent and fantastic acoustics during this set.

A new twist this year was that the post-concert reception was held at the nearby Colonnade Hotel, instead of a hall in the Symphony building. Though a bit challenging to access by foot because of a heavy rainfall, most of those who purchased a ticket attended the reception and seemed happy to meet fellow patrons and supporters and even meet the evenings’ stars, Papian and Sarkissian.

During the elegant champagne and desert reception, Arakelian, president of FACS, welcomed the guests and encouraged the participation of the younger generation in future cultural events. “Armenians and Armenian culture have many undiscovered gems and presenting our heritage adds its own unique color to the cultural mosaic of this world,” Arakelian reflected.