Two Generations, One Stage: Orran Celebrates Its 26th Anniversary with a Spring Concert

On April 22, the stage of the National Centre of Chamber Music became a platform for unity and solidarity between generations. Orran’s children’s and seniors’ choirs performed together in a joint concert, presenting both contemporary and national pieces in Armenian, English, and French.

The concert also fulfilled a promise made by Orran’s founder, Armine Hovannisian, during the organization’s 25th anniversary celebration. At that time, an 87-year-old member of the seniors’ choir, Aida Mnatsakanyan, had asked for the choir to be reopened—a promise that has now become a reality.

“The seniors’ choir was originally founded in 2012, but it stopped its activities in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Last year, during our 25th anniversary, our dear Aida asked us to reopen it. Raffi and I promised, and we kept that promise thanks to supporters and friends like you,” said Mrs. Hovannisian, emphasizing that the choir had worked hard to deliver an outstanding performance.

The audience was also welcomed by Orran’s long-time friend and benefactor, Ralph Yirikian.

“Orran is a mission. It began its work 26 years ago, and I am confident it will continue for many more years. I believe this because there will always be individuals and organizations who support such a mission. Where there is hope, optimism, and determination, life goes on—and so will Orran,” he noted.

Thanks to the joint efforts of the children’s choir conductor Lusine Hakobyan and the seniors’ choir conductor Silva Karapetyan, Orran’s 26th anniversary became a unique musical bridge, connecting the talent, experience, and dreams of different generations. The evening was hosted by Orran’s long-time friend Artak Vardanyan.

The concert brought together many of Orran’s friends and supporters, some of whom have been by the organization’s side since its very first day.

The event once again highlighted Orran’s mission: to create a caring, supportive, and dignified environment for children and elderly people in need, including those forcibly displaced from Artsakh, while also encouraging their creative potential.