Independence Day celebrated in New York: Works by Saryan, Kochar and Garzou put on display

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On September 21, 1991, citizens of Armenia made a historic choice, saying “yes” to independence in a referendum. On the same day, Armenians were also granted the right to be called citizens of the Republic of Armenia. Forty-seven countries recognized Armenia’s independence in 1991. The 25th anniversary of Armenia’s independence was solemnly marked in St. Vartan Armenian Cathedral in New York. A great celebration was organized with the support of the Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of America, Archbishop Khajag Barsamian and various Armenian associations. An exhibition of works by 25 Armenian artists opened in one of the halls where the works of Martiros Saryan, Ervand Kochar, Minas, Grigor Khanjyan, Garzou, Hovhannes Pushman and many others were put on display. The opening ceremony was attended by Armenia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Edward Nalbandian, Armenia's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Zohrab Mnatsakanyan, politicians and representatives of different organizations. The guests later gathered in St. Vartan Armenian Cathedral where a concert dedicated to Independence Day was performed. The audience warmly received the renowned American Armenian pianist Shahan Artsruni, young, talented cellist Laura Navasardyan, clarinetist Narek Harutyunyan, singer Yeghishe Manucharyan speeches, who performed works by Khachaturian, Harutiunian, Paganini and Komitas. After the concert, Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian congratulated the attendees on the occasion of Independence Day. Robert Karapetyan New York Photos by the author