Portraits of the Homeland

November 10, 2024

The Edward Hosharian Foundation’s annual benefit concert, Portraits of the Homeland, took center stage at the Alex Theatre on Sunday, November 10, 2024, creating an unforgettable evening that celebrated Armenian heritage, music, and community, while merging, for the first time ever, Armenian vocal compositions with a Gospel choir.

With over 900 guests in attendance, the event was masterfully hosted by Araksya Karapetyan, who lent her poise and charisma as Mistress of Ceremonies. The concert brought together Maestro Greg Hosharian, the Armenian Pops Orchestra, and the Voice of Hope Collective Choir for a groundbreaking collaboration that left audiences spellbound. Proceeds from the evening support scholarships for students of Armenian descent pursuing music, continuing the mission of the Edward Hosharian Foundation, a non-profit established to honor the legacy of the late composer Edward Hosharian.

The first half of the concert featured compositions by both Greg Hosharian and his father, Edward Hosharian. Highlights included performances by acclaimed musicians Salpy Kerkonian (flute), Angela Amirian (violin), Gevorg Rostomyan (Dhol) and a heartfelt rendition of Yeraz Im Yerkir Hayreni by Giselle Hosharian, Edward Hosharian’s granddaughter. This tribute to the Hosharian family’s musical legacy was a deeply personal and poignant moment that resonated with the audience.

In the second half, the program took an inspiring turn. Greg Hosharian and the Armenian Pops Orchestra were joined by the Voice of Hope Collective Gospel Choir, led by Jonte Moore and Aretha Scruggs. This diverse choir delivered a powerful performance of Der Voghormia and Silent Night, sung in both Armenian and English, showcasing the universality of music in bridging cultures. Soprano Natalie Buickians captivated the audience with her breathtaking vocals, transporting them to a place of spiritual reflection and unity.

The collaboration between the orchestra and choir was a labor of love, as choir members mastered complex Armenian lyrics and melodies. Greg Hosharian’s artistic vision brought fresh energy to this unique partnership, seamlessly blending diverse elements into a cohesive and powerful performance. The result was a harmonious fusion of tradition and innovation, culminating in a finale that brought the audience to their feet, demanding several encores.

This year’s Portraits of the Homeland has been hailed as the most unique and emotionally impactful concert in the foundation’s history. Attendees were moved to tears and lauded the event as a masterful tribute to Armenian culture and the enduring power of music. "Bringing together Armenian music with the powerful harmonies of a gospel choir has always been a dream of mine," says the Maestro. "That night, we made history in the concert hall—the very first collaboration of its kind, with the choir singing in Armenian."

The Edward Hosharian Foundation extends its gratitude to all performers, attendees, and supporters who contributed to the success of this extraordinary evening. Together, they continue to honor Edward Hosharian’s legacy while fostering the next generation of Armenian musicians.