Music and Poetry: Evocations of Armenia

With solo cello and spoken word, “Evocations of Armenia” weaves together music and poetry to form a rich tapestry of Armenian life and culture. Actor Nora Armani brings alive Armenian poetry from pagan times to the modern era, including the gripping “Birth of Vahakn,” Armenia’s God of Fire and conqueror of dragons; the ancient legend of the doomed lovers at Akhtamar; and the story of the enchanted Dove Abbey, by national poet Hovhannes Toumanyan. Cellist David Bakamjian performs poignant folk songs collected by Komitas, beautiful sacred chants from the Middle Ages and evocative music by 20th century composer Alan Hovhaness. The texts selected by Nora and the music arranged by David combines and juxtaposes in a rich, flowing and cogent program.