PROVIDENCE, R.I. — The Armenian Chorale of Rhode Island will celebrate its 70th anniversary with a Gala Concert on June 28, at 7 p.m. at the Egavian Cultural Center, 70 Jefferson St.
Since its inception, hundreds of volunteers have devoted their time and talent to the Armenian cultural heritage through their music. Their aim is to keep burning the torch of the Armenian spirit and never forget their glorious past. Their contribution to the Armenian heritage in Rhode Island is enormous. In appreciation of their time and devotion, the Chorale is compiling a list of all its members since 1954 to be listed in the concert program. They deserve our thanks and encouragement. Week after week, the Chorale practices under the direction of composer and conductor, Konstantin Petrossian, accompanied by pianist Mari Panosian.
The Armenian Chorale of Rhode Island was founded in 1954, and was first known as the Armenian Community Chorus of RI. Its founder was Rouben Gregorian, conductor, violinist and a professor at Boston Conservatory. Under his leadership, the Armenian Community Chorus reached great heights; its performance at Lincoln Center, New York, where the group sang Armenian Sharagans (hymns) and music from Gomidas, was received with great appreciation. Michael Kroian, a teacher at Warwick Veterans High school, and a graduate of the University of Rhode Island, assisted Gregorian on many occasions. Gregorian continued his services until 1986.
After a hiatus of a few years, the Chorale resumed its activities in 1995 under the direction of Konstantin Petrossian, changing its name to “Armenian Chorale of Rhode Island”. Members of the three Armenian churches in the community constitute the roster of the present Chorale. They have performed Sharagans, works of many Armenian composers, and occasionally, American popular tunes upon request.
Artists of renown, such as Lily Chukasian, Lucine Amara, Ara Berberian, and others have performed with the Chorale, accompanied by the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra. Also, a memorable performance of the Anoosh Opera with soloists from Armenia was an unforgettable experience.
Petrossian has cultivated Armenian heritage in Rhode Island by bringing Armenian music to the community, engaging well known Armenian soloists, dance groups, and above all, by cultivating the love of music in young children who have performed with the Chorale many times. In addition to its annual gala concerts, the Chorale has sung on Martyrs’ Day, Christmas, and other special occasions. In addition to performing in Rhode Island, the Chorale has had invitations to sing in nearby states, sometime joining the local existing choral group.
