March 23, 2011

Press Release

By Dr. Araxie Altounian

On Sunday, February 27 afternoon, AGBU Toronto held a talent show at the Babayan Ballroom of the Alex Manoogian Cultural Centre. After a 14 year hiatus, this talent show was a welcome addition to the diverse activities held by AGBU Toronto, and was well attended. Nineteen participants, ages 6 to 16, shared the stage, playing the piano or the violin, singing and dancing.
Displaying much confidence as well as love for music and dance, the young performers, all well trained by their teachers, generated a high level of enthusiasm among the audience members who expressed their joy and support for the young artists without reserve, often singing or clapping along. Such a warm and encouraging environment is quite different from the more formal music festivals and competitions. It is far less stressful, feels more like “home”, and is bound to leave a positive impression upon the young performers, increasing their confidence level and their attachment to a supportive community.
The repertoire consisted of Classical as well as Armenian music, ranging from simple tunes for the beginner student, to concert selections. At the end of the recital the performers were presented with certificates of participation, and the audience was treated to refreshments.
We hope to see the AGBU Talent Show become a recurring event. It is an excellent showcase of local young Armenian talent and their teachers, and a delightful experience for audience members to discover and support them. It is also fitting for a culture promoting organization such as the AGBU to celebrate our youth who have the love as well as the dedication and the discipline to pursue studies in the performing arts.

Participants Sarah Nersesian, Daron Altounian, Ruben Ohanian, Garen Demirdjian, Lilly Sagherian, Natasha Avetisian, Haig Grikor Artounian, Elien Aghazarian, Lena Darakjian, Sima Markosyan, Patrick Nazari, Madeline Nazari, Araz Tokdjian, Talar Nersesian, Stella Tonakanian, Ani Chemilian, Vana Tabrizi, Lori Tabrizi and Tamar Tabrizi pictured with their teachers and AGBU Toronto Board members.