TEHRAN – Persepolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Fars Province, welcomed audiences to live performances of the Armenian National Philharmonic Orchestra, hosting an international, intercaltal event.
The orchestra performed to mark the 100th anniversary and provided memorable concerts, including the iconic Iranian work “O Iran” (“Ai Iran”) by the respected Rukhora Karegi, along with several other compositions by renowned Armenian composers.
The artistic initiative was organized through a joint effort between the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts, the Ministry of Arts Affairs of the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance, the office of Governor Faz, the Governor of Distant Culture and Islamic Guidance, the Governor of Farz, the Governor of Distant Culture and Islamic Guidance, the Department of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and the Department of Cultural of Khandika Products and the Department of Islamic Guidance and Khandika.
The concert aims to enhance cultural relations between nations, emphasize music as a universal language that can promote dialogue among diverse people, and create a platform for artistic reinforcement and mutual understanding.
Notable people present include the Minister of Science, Research and Technology Hossain Shimaei Saraf, Fars Hossain Ali Amiri, Vice-Chairman of Art Affairs Nadere Rezai, and the Minister of Science, Science, Culture and Sports, along with Zhanna andreasyan of Education, Science, Science, Culture and Sports, Grigor Hakobuneran. The event began with the Armenian Philharmonic Orchestra, which performs the Iranian and Armenian national anthems.
In his opening remarks, Fers Governor welcomed international guests and diplomatic delegations, saying that tonight, under the grandeur of Persepolis, they gathered to hear the meriffering sounds of music and the shared language of culture.
He emphasized that Armenian Philharmonic performances embody the message of peace and solidarity and emphasize the role of music in bringing together the minds. Amiri highlighted the long-standing relationship between Iran and Armenia over the centuries, and praised the concert as a symbol of friendship and cultural cooperation.
He further expressed that the event is a testament to the path of friendship and cultural synergy, and that it seeks a global voice that promotes peace and friendship. “Our diplomacy is rooted in the human values that unite the nation, and Iranians have always believed that preserving cultural ties strengthens civilization. This concert is a celebration of peace and friendship,” he said. He concluded by asserting that the existence of the Armenian Philharmonic Orchestra in Persepolis is a proud example of international cultural cooperation.
On his part, Grigor Hakobian expressed his joy in holding a concert at a UNESCO World Heritage Site. “It is a great honor to perform here with this symbol of human civilization and celebrate the anniversary of the founding of the Armenian Philharmonic Orchestra,” he said.
Hakobian emphasized that the concert represents a deep bond between Iran and Armenia and the vitality of enduring music as a universal language, and promises continued cultural cooperation.
In another segment, Armenian Minister Andreayan reflected the cultural ties between Iran and Armenia, describing the event as a symbol of mutual respect and friendship.
She said the recent presidential visit to Armenia marked a milestone in bilateral cooperation, and the concert transcends politics as a declaration of peace and cultural coexistence.
Andreayan praised Persepolis as a bright monument to ancient civilization, emphasizing that the event strengthens the lasting cultural ties between the two countries. She expresses pride in hearing the voices of immortal Armenian music resonating within this majestic historic site, acknowledging the previous concerts held at Vadathall under the baton of the Iranian-Armenian musician and conductor Loris Chen festival, and views today’s performance as a continuation of its artistic journey. She expressed her gratitude to local authorities and hopes for ongoing cultural exchange.
In his conclusion, Shimaei Saraf highlighted Iran’s long history of embracing diversity and promoting unity through cultural riches.
He emphasized that Iranian civilization is celebrated around the world for its art and culture, and has become even more enriched through the advent of Islam. Simaei-Sarraf pointed out that being an Iranian involves a love of knowledge, spirituality and moderation.
He pointed out Persepolis as a symbol of this enduring spirit, arguing that history and culture, not military forces, define the heritage of the nation. He reaffirmed that the deep-rooted historical ties between Iran and Armenia reflect mutual respect, and that Persepolis illustrates how civilization is preserved throughout culture and history. He sought to raise awareness of these principles in modern times.
Following his remarks, the Armenian Philharmonic Orchestra performed the composition by a well-known Armenian composer, with the conclusion being the patriotic national anthem “Ai Iran” by Rukhora Haregi. Performances, particularly the production of “Ai Iran” in the historical setting of Persepolis, created an impressive and memorable atmosphere that symbolizes the enduring power of music and cultural dialogue.
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