Setting the clock forward in Turkish-Armenia relations
Friday, March 12, 2010
VERCİHAN ZİFLİOĞLU
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News
A new watch inspired by an old sundial will be dedicated to peace between Turkey and Armenia, says Bedros Tanışman, a Turkish-Armenian master watchmaker who has designed timepieces for the biggest names in the international luxury-watch industry. While not forgetting the past, he says, it is important to look forward
Award-winning watchmaker Bedros Tanışman.
A Swiss-based watchmaker is crafting a new timepiece with an ancient name as a testimony to peace in his two homelands, Turkey and Armenia.
Award-winning watchmaker Bedros Tanışman, the owner of renowned watch brand Peter Tanisman, visited Istanbul earlier this week on a business trip and spoke to the Hürriyet Daily News & Economic Review, describing the city as his “indispensable breath.”
“It is not possible for Turks and Armenians to be pulled apart from each other,” said Tanışman, 52. “I do not have a political stance, but I’d like to give a message to the world: Do not cast a shadow [over Turkish-Armenian relations].”
Recently, Tanışman has been working on a special watch called “Gnomon,” after the ancient Greek word meaning “indicator,” “one who discerns” or “that which reveals.” The word was used to describe a crucial part of ancient sundials.
“During one of my visits to Armenia, I came upon a sundial on the wall of a monastery that was thousands of years old,” the watchmaker said. “That impressed me tremendously. I will combine a modern technique with my own style and make Gnomon live again.”
Tanışman said he is giving a symbolic value to the soon-to-be-unveiled design. “I will dedicate it to the peaceful future of Turkish and Armenian peoples,” he said. “I cannot discern between the two and both are very important for me. Let us put our clocks forward, not backward, without denying the pain of the past. Let every tick remind us of peace, friendship and the beautiful days of our future.”
The watchmaker’s awards
The well-known timepiece designer has also created “24 Hours,” a special watch for Turkey. “I tried to merge the Ottomans and Turkey with my imagination,” he said. “I used turquoise, while the numbers are different than what is common.”
Tanışman’s mother’s roots go back to the northern Anatolian province of Amasya while his father’s ancestors came from the central province of Sivas. He told the Daily News that he started working with jewelry as an apprentice in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, like many Anatolian Armenians, and dreamed of becoming the best jeweler in Turkey.
But in 1982, when he was only 24, he accepted a once-in-a-lifetime offer from luxury watchmaker Cartier to move to Europe and work in Switzerland. Since then, Tanışman’s exclusive designs have made their mark throughout the world. He has produced designs for Piaget, Chopard and Audemars Piguet, in addition to Cartier.
Tanışman founded his own brand, called Peter Tanışman, in 2008. The same year, his “Carousel” design, an 83,000-euro watch studded with 552 diamonds, all placed by hand, ranked in the global top 10 at the “Grand Prix de l’Horlogerie de Beneve” contest. Another one of his designs for Piaget was selected as number one in the contest.
Future plans
Tanışman has traditionally made his watchbands with leather produced from alligators and stingrays, a practice he says he is increasingly regretting. “Until today, I used leather from animals, but my conscience tells me to stop,” he said. “Most probably, I will not use animal leather in my new designs.”
Although he declined to reveal names, Tanışman has made expensive watches for a long list of the rich and powerful. “My customers include royal families, Arab sheiks, Hollywood stars and members of global high society,” he said. “[But] our craft has a principle of confidentiality.”
Tanışman’s brand is now preparing to enter the Turkish market.
“There is an abundant demand here for luxury goods,” he said. “I was born in this land and I will be back with a brand that bears my name.”
15 Mart 2010 Pazartesi
5 Mart 2010 Cuma
ESCAPE FROM THE CITY: The historical and cultural richness of Armenia
ESCAPE FROM THE CITY: The historical and cultural richness of Armenia
Thursday, March 4, 2010
VERCİHAN ZİFLİOĞLU
ISTANBUL – Hürriyet Daily News
Although the border between Turkey and Armenia is not open, one can travel to Armenia through Georgia or by buses taking off from Istanbul to see museums and historical temples that are on UNESCO’s world heritage list
A small country on the world map, Armenia is a historically and culturally rich place in the Caucasus.
The country of the legendary Hayk, known as a patriarch and founder of the Armenian nation, was declared independent 19 years ago after the Soviet Union’s break up. The Turkish and Azerbaijani borders of Armenia were closed in 1993 due to the Karabakh war. As the doors opening Armenia to the world have been the borders with Iran and Georgia for the last 17 years, Armenia has been on the world agenda because of political issues for the last few years.
If you want to witness history and experience adventure before the borders between Turkey and Armenia open, this is the right time. Of course, Armenia is not only about the borders, politics and history. It has its traditions and culture. However, one must put up with some difficulties on the way to visiting Yerevan.
Be careful with the taxis at the airport
One can take an AFP bus from Aksaray, Istanbul to Yerevan. The tickets cost $60, and the bus leaves on Wednesdays at 11:30 a.m. On the way it is possible to see Armenian suitcase traders and hear about their tough lives. The buses travel through Georgia on a route that is a long way from Istanbul to Yerevan.
In case one prefers the plane to the bus, there are flights from Istanbul directly to Yerevan. There are two flights per week from Atatürk Airport, and the journey takes an hour and a half. Once getting off the plane at Zvartnots Airport, which is only a few kilometers from the city center, one should pay attention to two things before approaching the passport control booths. One should exchange money to the Armenian currency, Trams, and fill out the visa form carefully.
If one gets into line for the passport check without exchanging money or filling out the form, one gets a warning from the officials and needs to get out of the line. If it is one’s first visit to the country and there is nobody to pick one up at the airport, get a taxi, but do not forget to bargain with the driver. Otherwise, the distance, which normally costs $2, will turn into $50.
Magical view of Mount Ararat
The first day one should get to know Yerevan, the capital of Armenia. The city is like an open-air museum. From a bird’s eye view, it is designed in the shape of a sun with rays of light by the legendary architect Alexander Tamanyan. In the center of the city one should visit Azadutyun Hrabarag, known as the independence square. One can also see the magical view of Ararat and its peak touching the clouds.
The city is home to a newly constructed avenue, named North Avenue. Following this one can reach the Opera Square, which fills the eyes with its charming architecture. The huge posters decorating the wall on the side of the opera building display the program for the week. Try not to leave before watching a performance.
Surprise at Cascade stairs
There are various museums to visit in Yerevan, but one should first spare time for the Madenataran Museum, which displays thousands of years of calligraphy artworks and miniatures. After visiting the museum, try to head to Cascade Square, where a huge cat monument will welcome you. There are also stars where one can sit down for a rest and watch the amazing view of Mount Ararat. To have a nice meal after a beautiful and calm day in Yerevan, one can go to Sirelineru Ayki, or Lover's Park. There one can find various choices of cafés and restaurants.
A monastery formed of rocks
Although Yerevan is a small city, one needs at least three days to visit all the important areas. Gyumri is a smaller city than Yerevan, although it is known as the second biggest city of Armenia, and it is within walking distance from the Turkish border. After it was demolished by an earthquake in 1988, it took a long time for the city to recover. One can still see traces of the earthquake, yet the historical parts are still standing. The architectural structure of the city is similar to Turkey’s northeastern city Kars.
Getting to know the locals is possible by listening to the music, learning about the literature and visiting religious constructions. On the hills and mountains and inside the caves there are lots of monasteries and churches, and one of the most interesting among these constructions is located in the Lori region. Built inside high rock surfaces, Kobayr Monastery is worth a visit. One can also see a similar construction in the Dilijan region at Keghart Monastery.
UNESCO’s list
Within the borders of the country there are many monasteries, churches and temples belonging to the era before Christianity. Some of them are listed on UNESCO’s list of world heritage sites. One of the most important is the Kotayk Region’s Garni Temple, which dates back to the polytheistic era before Christianity. The others are Hagbat and Sanahin monasteries. Try to visit the Armenian Apostolik Church and the hand carved stones at Xhackarlar (Cross-stone). Veteran artisans’ works on historic Xhackarlar should be seen.
On the way back to Turkey try to buy souvenirs, such as pomegranates, the symbol of Armenia, coffee and delicious apricots and cheeses.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
VERCİHAN ZİFLİOĞLU
ISTANBUL – Hürriyet Daily News
Although the border between Turkey and Armenia is not open, one can travel to Armenia through Georgia or by buses taking off from Istanbul to see museums and historical temples that are on UNESCO’s world heritage list
A small country on the world map, Armenia is a historically and culturally rich place in the Caucasus.
The country of the legendary Hayk, known as a patriarch and founder of the Armenian nation, was declared independent 19 years ago after the Soviet Union’s break up. The Turkish and Azerbaijani borders of Armenia were closed in 1993 due to the Karabakh war. As the doors opening Armenia to the world have been the borders with Iran and Georgia for the last 17 years, Armenia has been on the world agenda because of political issues for the last few years.
If you want to witness history and experience adventure before the borders between Turkey and Armenia open, this is the right time. Of course, Armenia is not only about the borders, politics and history. It has its traditions and culture. However, one must put up with some difficulties on the way to visiting Yerevan.
Be careful with the taxis at the airport
One can take an AFP bus from Aksaray, Istanbul to Yerevan. The tickets cost $60, and the bus leaves on Wednesdays at 11:30 a.m. On the way it is possible to see Armenian suitcase traders and hear about their tough lives. The buses travel through Georgia on a route that is a long way from Istanbul to Yerevan.
In case one prefers the plane to the bus, there are flights from Istanbul directly to Yerevan. There are two flights per week from Atatürk Airport, and the journey takes an hour and a half. Once getting off the plane at Zvartnots Airport, which is only a few kilometers from the city center, one should pay attention to two things before approaching the passport control booths. One should exchange money to the Armenian currency, Trams, and fill out the visa form carefully.
If one gets into line for the passport check without exchanging money or filling out the form, one gets a warning from the officials and needs to get out of the line. If it is one’s first visit to the country and there is nobody to pick one up at the airport, get a taxi, but do not forget to bargain with the driver. Otherwise, the distance, which normally costs $2, will turn into $50.
Magical view of Mount Ararat
The first day one should get to know Yerevan, the capital of Armenia. The city is like an open-air museum. From a bird’s eye view, it is designed in the shape of a sun with rays of light by the legendary architect Alexander Tamanyan. In the center of the city one should visit Azadutyun Hrabarag, known as the independence square. One can also see the magical view of Ararat and its peak touching the clouds.
The city is home to a newly constructed avenue, named North Avenue. Following this one can reach the Opera Square, which fills the eyes with its charming architecture. The huge posters decorating the wall on the side of the opera building display the program for the week. Try not to leave before watching a performance.
Surprise at Cascade stairs
There are various museums to visit in Yerevan, but one should first spare time for the Madenataran Museum, which displays thousands of years of calligraphy artworks and miniatures. After visiting the museum, try to head to Cascade Square, where a huge cat monument will welcome you. There are also stars where one can sit down for a rest and watch the amazing view of Mount Ararat. To have a nice meal after a beautiful and calm day in Yerevan, one can go to Sirelineru Ayki, or Lover's Park. There one can find various choices of cafés and restaurants.
A monastery formed of rocks
Although Yerevan is a small city, one needs at least three days to visit all the important areas. Gyumri is a smaller city than Yerevan, although it is known as the second biggest city of Armenia, and it is within walking distance from the Turkish border. After it was demolished by an earthquake in 1988, it took a long time for the city to recover. One can still see traces of the earthquake, yet the historical parts are still standing. The architectural structure of the city is similar to Turkey’s northeastern city Kars.
Getting to know the locals is possible by listening to the music, learning about the literature and visiting religious constructions. On the hills and mountains and inside the caves there are lots of monasteries and churches, and one of the most interesting among these constructions is located in the Lori region. Built inside high rock surfaces, Kobayr Monastery is worth a visit. One can also see a similar construction in the Dilijan region at Keghart Monastery.
UNESCO’s list
Within the borders of the country there are many monasteries, churches and temples belonging to the era before Christianity. Some of them are listed on UNESCO’s list of world heritage sites. One of the most important is the Kotayk Region’s Garni Temple, which dates back to the polytheistic era before Christianity. The others are Hagbat and Sanahin monasteries. Try to visit the Armenian Apostolik Church and the hand carved stones at Xhackarlar (Cross-stone). Veteran artisans’ works on historic Xhackarlar should be seen.
On the way back to Turkey try to buy souvenirs, such as pomegranates, the symbol of Armenia, coffee and delicious apricots and cheeses.
1 Mart 2010 Pazartesi
Sad and timid songs of Anatolian people
Sad and timid songs of Anatolian people
Sunday, February 28, 2010
VERCİHAN ZİFLİOĞLU
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News
The movie, ‘Lost Songs of Anatolia,’ brings in something new to the Turkish history of cinema. Armenian folk songs are performed by Anatolian people for the first time in this movie. The movie will be released this month
Inspired by Peter Gabriel’s “Passion” album, which includes Anatolian folk songs, composer, producer and arranger Nezih Ünen produced a work dedicated to Anatolian.
Ünen packed his bag and hit the road exactly eight years ago. He had only one purpose: wandering from village to village or from town to town and compiling the folk songs of Anatolia. He researched incessantly for eight years.
The Anatolian people have sung almost forgotten folk songs without any need for instrumental accompaniment in many languages such as Turkish, Persian, Armenian, Greek, Kurdish and Syriac.
While compiling the songs, he also video recorded Anatolia and reminded many of the lively and colorful cultural make up of Turkey. Ünen told the Hürriyet Daily News & Economic Review that this work was focused on a period of 100 years in Anatolia and he added, “A hundred years ago, cinema and the music industry started to grow up and circulate freely. While the world was developing quickly in culture and arts, Anatolia was left to solitude despite all its riches.”
Anatolia wrote its own poetry
The folk songs compiled by Ünen in eight years were released as an album titled “Lost Songs of Anatolia” by Kalan Music holding the archives of Anatolian ethnic music and owned by Hasan Saltuk. The movie, filmed by Ünen under the same name, will also be released March 12. Stating that “Lost Songs of Anatolia” was meant to be a movie not a documentary, Ünen continued: “Anatolia would reveal the truth about itself on its own. If it was a documentary, it would be too didactic. So I wanted it to be a movie composing its own poetry.”
Ünen said he took recordings for 350 hours and compiled hundreds of folk songs during his research. Stating he had difficulty in assembling the parts and creating the movie, Ünen also added: “There were many things to talk about. I was unwilling to cut or remove any information or scene but the time was limited.”
Armenian for the first time in Turkish cinema
In the movie, the folk songs were sung by local people without any interruption. The CD’s music and the movie’s music are different from each other. Armenian and Greek songs in the movie were not included in the CD. ”Armenian songs would be performed for the first time in a movie. This is a beginning in Turkish cinema history. I hope this will continue,” Ünen said. Describing Anatolia as a cultural treasure, Ünen said: “We should dote on Anatolia, protect all its riches and hand down this heritage to the next generations. This is our primary responsibility.”
Stuck between East and West
Remarking that Turkey turned its face toward the West since the foundation of the Turkish Republic and thus, lost its own values, Ünen said: “West lovers started to assume themselves as the lords of Istanbul. They look down upon the East and treat Anatolia as the ‘other.’ ‘The gentlemen of Istanbul’ who try to become Western without internalizing their own culture got stuck between East and West.” Ünen said Turkey should make a claim to its own culture and riches and added, “Turkey should not be a country fearing the diversity of its people and their languages.”
Stating that he is also a part of this country and grew up with the notion of official history, Ünen continued as follows: “In fact, when I realize that I do not know Anatolian people, I understood that I did not know myself either. After I became aware of this, I decided to do something about it and started from the point I knew best.”
Materials would not be wasted
Ünen said the movie was expensive and the Culture Ministry covered only 10 percent of the budget. “Financial difficulties did not deter us from our way,” said Ünen, adding that the eight years of work would not be limited to just a movie and a CD. Although he said he found documentaries somehow didactic, Ünen stated that he would prepare a documentary using the leftover parts of his research.
“I insist that the movie is poetry. I do not want to waste the materials at hand. So I would prepare a documentary. Viewing the documentary, the audience would feel that they traveled Anatolia from one end to the other,” Ünen said.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
VERCİHAN ZİFLİOĞLU
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News
The movie, ‘Lost Songs of Anatolia,’ brings in something new to the Turkish history of cinema. Armenian folk songs are performed by Anatolian people for the first time in this movie. The movie will be released this month
Inspired by Peter Gabriel’s “Passion” album, which includes Anatolian folk songs, composer, producer and arranger Nezih Ünen produced a work dedicated to Anatolian.
Ünen packed his bag and hit the road exactly eight years ago. He had only one purpose: wandering from village to village or from town to town and compiling the folk songs of Anatolia. He researched incessantly for eight years.
The Anatolian people have sung almost forgotten folk songs without any need for instrumental accompaniment in many languages such as Turkish, Persian, Armenian, Greek, Kurdish and Syriac.
While compiling the songs, he also video recorded Anatolia and reminded many of the lively and colorful cultural make up of Turkey. Ünen told the Hürriyet Daily News & Economic Review that this work was focused on a period of 100 years in Anatolia and he added, “A hundred years ago, cinema and the music industry started to grow up and circulate freely. While the world was developing quickly in culture and arts, Anatolia was left to solitude despite all its riches.”
Anatolia wrote its own poetry
The folk songs compiled by Ünen in eight years were released as an album titled “Lost Songs of Anatolia” by Kalan Music holding the archives of Anatolian ethnic music and owned by Hasan Saltuk. The movie, filmed by Ünen under the same name, will also be released March 12. Stating that “Lost Songs of Anatolia” was meant to be a movie not a documentary, Ünen continued: “Anatolia would reveal the truth about itself on its own. If it was a documentary, it would be too didactic. So I wanted it to be a movie composing its own poetry.”
Ünen said he took recordings for 350 hours and compiled hundreds of folk songs during his research. Stating he had difficulty in assembling the parts and creating the movie, Ünen also added: “There were many things to talk about. I was unwilling to cut or remove any information or scene but the time was limited.”
Armenian for the first time in Turkish cinema
In the movie, the folk songs were sung by local people without any interruption. The CD’s music and the movie’s music are different from each other. Armenian and Greek songs in the movie were not included in the CD. ”Armenian songs would be performed for the first time in a movie. This is a beginning in Turkish cinema history. I hope this will continue,” Ünen said. Describing Anatolia as a cultural treasure, Ünen said: “We should dote on Anatolia, protect all its riches and hand down this heritage to the next generations. This is our primary responsibility.”
Stuck between East and West
Remarking that Turkey turned its face toward the West since the foundation of the Turkish Republic and thus, lost its own values, Ünen said: “West lovers started to assume themselves as the lords of Istanbul. They look down upon the East and treat Anatolia as the ‘other.’ ‘The gentlemen of Istanbul’ who try to become Western without internalizing their own culture got stuck between East and West.” Ünen said Turkey should make a claim to its own culture and riches and added, “Turkey should not be a country fearing the diversity of its people and their languages.”
Stating that he is also a part of this country and grew up with the notion of official history, Ünen continued as follows: “In fact, when I realize that I do not know Anatolian people, I understood that I did not know myself either. After I became aware of this, I decided to do something about it and started from the point I knew best.”
Materials would not be wasted
Ünen said the movie was expensive and the Culture Ministry covered only 10 percent of the budget. “Financial difficulties did not deter us from our way,” said Ünen, adding that the eight years of work would not be limited to just a movie and a CD. Although he said he found documentaries somehow didactic, Ünen stated that he would prepare a documentary using the leftover parts of his research.
“I insist that the movie is poetry. I do not want to waste the materials at hand. So I would prepare a documentary. Viewing the documentary, the audience would feel that they traveled Anatolia from one end to the other,” Ünen said.
26 Şubat 2010 Cuma
Turkish state choir to perform Armenian work for first time
Turkish state choir to perform Armenian work for first time
Thursday, February 25, 2010
VERCİHAN ZİFLİOĞLU
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News
In a historic event, the Ankara Radio Polyphonic Choir, which is affiliated with the state-owned Turkish Radio and Television, or TRT, has performed a work in Armenian under the direction of Istanbul-based Armenian conductor Hagop Mamigonyan. The choir will perform the work again at an Armenian church in Istanbul
For the first time in Turkey’s history, the Ankara Radio Polyphonic Choir, which is affiliated with the state-owned Turkish Radio and Television Corporation, or TRT, has performed a work by a leading Armenian composer.
Led by Istanbul-based conductor Hagop Mamigonyan, the choir performed “Gali Yerk” (Harvest Wind), a work by Armenian polyphonic music expert and ethnomusicologist Gomidas Vartabed.
Founded in 1970, the TRT decided last year to celebrate its 40th anniversary with 40 different conductors, both Turkish and foreign. One of those it invited was the young Hagop Mamigonyan of the Surp Lusavoriç Armenian Choir, which has been performing in Istanbul for 80 years. Each conductor was free to select the music that would be performed. Mamigonyan told the TRT that he wanted to lead the choir in an Armenian piece.
“When I told them on the phone that I wanted to perform an Armenian work, there was silence for a few seconds on the other end of the line, but my request was accepted,” Mamigonyan told the Hürriyet Daily News & Economic Review.
Still, Mamigonyan said, he had doubts until he started working with the choir and was worried that the TRT administration would retreat at the last minute, but this did not happen. Recordings of the concert will be available in the coming months. In another historic first, the Ankara Radio Polyphonic Choir will also perform “Gali Yerk” in the Surp Yerortutyun Armenian Church in Istanbul’s Beyoğlu district.
Full speed ahead for dialogue
In previous years, performing Armenian songs was banned on TRT television channels and radio stations. By making his proposal, Mamigonyan achieved a first in Turkey, a historic responsibility for someone of his young age.
“I express my gratitude to the TRT administration that supported my idea,” he said. “Turkish and Armenian composers created common works during the Ottoman era. Why don’t we do it today? Yes, it may be difficult, but it is time to say ‘full speed ahead’ for dialogue and a peaceful future.”
The TRT project gave each conductor five days to work with the choir. Mamigonyan, the 13th youngest out of 40 conductors, said he was very stressed before going to Ankara: “The reason for my stress was musical concerns, because I was among many conductors who were older than me.”
Mamigonyan was given the first five days in February. The young conductor met with the 28-person choir on the first day and explained why he had chosen an Armenian song from ethnomusicologist Vartabed. Time was very limited for both conductor and choir. Mamigonyan translated the Armenian lyrics into Latin script and gave them to the members of the choir.
“They were very excited to perform the work. Although they did not understand the language, it was very easy for them to become adapted to the work,” he said. “The result was magnificent. We really enjoyed it. We had deep sorrow upon leaving each other at the end of the five days.”
During that period, Mamigonyan said, the group exchanged ideas over dinner. “We were generally talking about Turkish-Armenian relations,” he said, describing a humorous event during the rehearsals. “There was a retired colonel among the choir members. When he asked me something, I unwittingly told him, ‘Yes, sir!’” he said. “All the choir members began laughing at me. Later on we became friends with this colonel.”
Mamigonyan is the chief conductor of the 40-person polyphonic Surp Lusavoriç Armenian Choir in Istanbul. The choir will give a concert April 10 at Hagia Irene Museum. Kalan Music also recently released an album by the choir.
About Gomidas Vartabed
Born in the Aegean city of Kütahya during the Ottoman era, Gomidas Vartabed received theology education at Eçmiyazin, which is the Armenian Apostolic Church's papacy center in Armenia. After he graduated, he went to Berlin to study music. He later compiled Armenian and Ottoman folk songs from Anatolia to Armenia. An ethnomusicologist, Vartabed became a leading figure in Armenian polyphonic music.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
VERCİHAN ZİFLİOĞLU
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News
In a historic event, the Ankara Radio Polyphonic Choir, which is affiliated with the state-owned Turkish Radio and Television, or TRT, has performed a work in Armenian under the direction of Istanbul-based Armenian conductor Hagop Mamigonyan. The choir will perform the work again at an Armenian church in Istanbul
For the first time in Turkey’s history, the Ankara Radio Polyphonic Choir, which is affiliated with the state-owned Turkish Radio and Television Corporation, or TRT, has performed a work by a leading Armenian composer.
Led by Istanbul-based conductor Hagop Mamigonyan, the choir performed “Gali Yerk” (Harvest Wind), a work by Armenian polyphonic music expert and ethnomusicologist Gomidas Vartabed.
Founded in 1970, the TRT decided last year to celebrate its 40th anniversary with 40 different conductors, both Turkish and foreign. One of those it invited was the young Hagop Mamigonyan of the Surp Lusavoriç Armenian Choir, which has been performing in Istanbul for 80 years. Each conductor was free to select the music that would be performed. Mamigonyan told the TRT that he wanted to lead the choir in an Armenian piece.
“When I told them on the phone that I wanted to perform an Armenian work, there was silence for a few seconds on the other end of the line, but my request was accepted,” Mamigonyan told the Hürriyet Daily News & Economic Review.
Still, Mamigonyan said, he had doubts until he started working with the choir and was worried that the TRT administration would retreat at the last minute, but this did not happen. Recordings of the concert will be available in the coming months. In another historic first, the Ankara Radio Polyphonic Choir will also perform “Gali Yerk” in the Surp Yerortutyun Armenian Church in Istanbul’s Beyoğlu district.
Full speed ahead for dialogue
In previous years, performing Armenian songs was banned on TRT television channels and radio stations. By making his proposal, Mamigonyan achieved a first in Turkey, a historic responsibility for someone of his young age.
“I express my gratitude to the TRT administration that supported my idea,” he said. “Turkish and Armenian composers created common works during the Ottoman era. Why don’t we do it today? Yes, it may be difficult, but it is time to say ‘full speed ahead’ for dialogue and a peaceful future.”
The TRT project gave each conductor five days to work with the choir. Mamigonyan, the 13th youngest out of 40 conductors, said he was very stressed before going to Ankara: “The reason for my stress was musical concerns, because I was among many conductors who were older than me.”
Mamigonyan was given the first five days in February. The young conductor met with the 28-person choir on the first day and explained why he had chosen an Armenian song from ethnomusicologist Vartabed. Time was very limited for both conductor and choir. Mamigonyan translated the Armenian lyrics into Latin script and gave them to the members of the choir.
“They were very excited to perform the work. Although they did not understand the language, it was very easy for them to become adapted to the work,” he said. “The result was magnificent. We really enjoyed it. We had deep sorrow upon leaving each other at the end of the five days.”
During that period, Mamigonyan said, the group exchanged ideas over dinner. “We were generally talking about Turkish-Armenian relations,” he said, describing a humorous event during the rehearsals. “There was a retired colonel among the choir members. When he asked me something, I unwittingly told him, ‘Yes, sir!’” he said. “All the choir members began laughing at me. Later on we became friends with this colonel.”
Mamigonyan is the chief conductor of the 40-person polyphonic Surp Lusavoriç Armenian Choir in Istanbul. The choir will give a concert April 10 at Hagia Irene Museum. Kalan Music also recently released an album by the choir.
About Gomidas Vartabed
Born in the Aegean city of Kütahya during the Ottoman era, Gomidas Vartabed received theology education at Eçmiyazin, which is the Armenian Apostolic Church's papacy center in Armenia. After he graduated, he went to Berlin to study music. He later compiled Armenian and Ottoman folk songs from Anatolia to Armenia. An ethnomusicologist, Vartabed became a leading figure in Armenian polyphonic music.
25 Şubat 2010 Perşembe
Post-election scars still open in Armenia
Post-election scars still open in Armenia
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Vercihan ZİFLİOĞLU
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News
Journalist Aramazd Ghalamkarian suffered a serious head wound during clashes on March 1 against the 2008 presidential election results.
Post-election violence following a controversial presidential vote remains fresh in many Armenians’ minds two years later as critics accuse the authorities of negligence in the investigation of the deadly events.
Masses of people poured into the streets to protest alleged electoral fraud in the wake of the Feb. 19, 2008, elections. Supporters of unsuccessful presidential candidate and first Armenian President Levon Ter-Petrossian staged peaceful protests in Yerevan’s Opera Square for nine days. Deadly clashes, however, erupted after authorities imposed a state of emergency and sent the military into the streets to disperse the protesters March 1.
Official reports said 10 people died that night; according to representatives of non-governmental organizations, however, the official number of injured civilians may have been underreported. They say several of those injured were turned away from hospitals and medical clinics.
With many Armenians holding the administration of President Serge Sarkisian responsible for the deadly clashes, the Armenian parliament has established a committee to examine the events. Many, however, are suspicious of the investigation.
Journalist Aramazd Ghalamkarian, who witnessed the protests and suffered a serious head wound during them, is one who said he has no trust in the parliamentary committee. “The real offenders have not been revealed and punished for two years. It is being said the orders came from higher levels and the ones who argue that are hiding in their superiors’ shadow,” he told the Hürriyet Daily News & Economic Review in an e-mail interview.
“There were a plenty of reasons [behind the violence]: the collapsing economy of the last nine years, unemployment, the silencing of the opposition and many other countless reasons,” added Ghalamkarian, who formerly worked with the United Nations Development Programme, or UNDP’s, country office in Armenia and currently serves as deputy director of the daily Haikakan Zhamanak (Armenian Times). “The election added salt to the wound because the elections were not legitimate.”
Greatest pain
“I was in great physical pain because I was seriously wounded. The physical pain notwithstanding, the greatest pain I felt was for my country,” Ghalamkarian said. “Blood might be spilled in order to defend the country against an enemy, but we were spilling our own blood with our own hands. That was a true betrayal to the spirits of our ancestors and the future of our children.”
Arman Musinian from the Armenian National Congress voiced concerns similar to Ghalamkarian’s. He told the Daily News in a phone interview that Yerevan did not want the world to know about the March 1 events because “a big crime was committed and it was a violation of human rights.”
Like Ghalamkarian, Musinian also believes the parliamentary committee could not act independently due to pressure from the ruling party. “However, the inspection board – founded by international human rights foundations – made significant process in shedding light on the events,” he said. “The conscience of Armenia will reveal the murderers who killed innocent people. I have complete faith in that.”
Professor Ruben Safrastian, the director of the Republic of Armenia’s National Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Oriental Studies, meanwhile said he believes the parliamentary committee will fulfill its task.
“The committee is looking into things very carefully; I believe the truth will be revealed soon,” Safrastian told the Daily News. “These types of events could occur in many countries. Armenia is a young republic and, yes, it is experiencing tremors, but it is also taking fast steps on the path to democracy and human rights – we should not ignore that.”
Still, Ghalamkarian said the dark side of the March 1 events would be revealed when the current administration is removed from power. According to him, the inspection boards will not be independent and free until there is a change in administration.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Vercihan ZİFLİOĞLU
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News
Journalist Aramazd Ghalamkarian suffered a serious head wound during clashes on March 1 against the 2008 presidential election results.
Post-election violence following a controversial presidential vote remains fresh in many Armenians’ minds two years later as critics accuse the authorities of negligence in the investigation of the deadly events.
Masses of people poured into the streets to protest alleged electoral fraud in the wake of the Feb. 19, 2008, elections. Supporters of unsuccessful presidential candidate and first Armenian President Levon Ter-Petrossian staged peaceful protests in Yerevan’s Opera Square for nine days. Deadly clashes, however, erupted after authorities imposed a state of emergency and sent the military into the streets to disperse the protesters March 1.
Official reports said 10 people died that night; according to representatives of non-governmental organizations, however, the official number of injured civilians may have been underreported. They say several of those injured were turned away from hospitals and medical clinics.
With many Armenians holding the administration of President Serge Sarkisian responsible for the deadly clashes, the Armenian parliament has established a committee to examine the events. Many, however, are suspicious of the investigation.
Journalist Aramazd Ghalamkarian, who witnessed the protests and suffered a serious head wound during them, is one who said he has no trust in the parliamentary committee. “The real offenders have not been revealed and punished for two years. It is being said the orders came from higher levels and the ones who argue that are hiding in their superiors’ shadow,” he told the Hürriyet Daily News & Economic Review in an e-mail interview.
“There were a plenty of reasons [behind the violence]: the collapsing economy of the last nine years, unemployment, the silencing of the opposition and many other countless reasons,” added Ghalamkarian, who formerly worked with the United Nations Development Programme, or UNDP’s, country office in Armenia and currently serves as deputy director of the daily Haikakan Zhamanak (Armenian Times). “The election added salt to the wound because the elections were not legitimate.”
Greatest pain
“I was in great physical pain because I was seriously wounded. The physical pain notwithstanding, the greatest pain I felt was for my country,” Ghalamkarian said. “Blood might be spilled in order to defend the country against an enemy, but we were spilling our own blood with our own hands. That was a true betrayal to the spirits of our ancestors and the future of our children.”
Arman Musinian from the Armenian National Congress voiced concerns similar to Ghalamkarian’s. He told the Daily News in a phone interview that Yerevan did not want the world to know about the March 1 events because “a big crime was committed and it was a violation of human rights.”
Like Ghalamkarian, Musinian also believes the parliamentary committee could not act independently due to pressure from the ruling party. “However, the inspection board – founded by international human rights foundations – made significant process in shedding light on the events,” he said. “The conscience of Armenia will reveal the murderers who killed innocent people. I have complete faith in that.”
Professor Ruben Safrastian, the director of the Republic of Armenia’s National Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Oriental Studies, meanwhile said he believes the parliamentary committee will fulfill its task.
“The committee is looking into things very carefully; I believe the truth will be revealed soon,” Safrastian told the Daily News. “These types of events could occur in many countries. Armenia is a young republic and, yes, it is experiencing tremors, but it is also taking fast steps on the path to democracy and human rights – we should not ignore that.”
Still, Ghalamkarian said the dark side of the March 1 events would be revealed when the current administration is removed from power. According to him, the inspection boards will not be independent and free until there is a change in administration.
18 Şubat 2010 Perşembe
Let’s cut out the middlemen, to-be patriarch
Let’s cut out the middlemen, to-be patriarch
Thursday, February 18, 2010
VERCİHAN ZİFLİOĞLU
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News
For the first time in history, an Armenian candidate will likely head the Armenian Patriarchy of Turkey.
Armenian Apostolic Church Diocese of Gougark Bishop Sebouh Chuljyan Primate will be the 85th patriarch of Armenians in Turkey if he wins the elections expected to take place in May.
According to an 1861 Ottoman regulation that is applicable even today, a bishop can be the patriarch of Armenians in Turkey if his father was born in Turkey.
Speaking to the Hürriyet Daily News & Economic Review during a visit to Istanbul, Chuljyan delivered important messages not only to the Turkish and Armenian communities, but also to the Western world.
Speaking at the historical Armenian church of “Surp Kevork” (St. Gregory) at Kocamustafapaşa in Istanbul, Chuljyan said if he wins, then the patriarchy would be “kept away from politics.”
“We will not repeat the previous mistakes. Let politicians deal with politics. I will put effort into enhancing the dialogue between the Turkish and Armenian peoples,” he said. “We need to look deep in each other’s eyes and talk about grievances.”
Chuljyan also said the recent warming of bilateral relations is a historic milestone. He said steps must be taken immediately to re-establish official relations. “This chance to open the path of dialogue between the two peoples should not be missed. Time works against us,” he told the Daily News.
The bishop criticized the Western world’s mediation, also saying that Germany played a major role in the events of 1915. “Germany has not accepted its responsibility in the events of 1915 until today. It has always preferred to keep silent,” he said, adding that the innocent Armenian population in Anatolia went through great agonies in the past because of the “egocentric stance of the West.”
“The Western world has manipulated us for its benefits in Anatolia,” he said. “I would like to think that those who try to act as mediators between the Turkish and Armenian peoples are trying to get rid of the burden of their consciences. However, they have their interests in mind once again, in the form of the Caucasus.”
No need for mediators
Chuljyan said he believes Turkey and Armenia should start building dialogue immediately, without mediators. “There is no one who knows us better than us. Let us overcome our grievances together and start a dialogue,” he said.
Throughout the interview, Chuljyan kept his critical stance toward the Western world, addressing the West: “Do not add any more salt to our wounds, do not pit the two peoples against themselves for your interests.”
Chuljyan was actually born in Turkey, in the eastern province of Malatya, before migrating to Armenia at the age of 10 with his family. The bishop speaks Turkish fluently. If he is elected patriarch, he will apply for Turkish citizenship, provided the Turkish Republic approves. He said he would keep his Armenian citizenship and become a dual citizen.
Chuljyan said he visits Anatolia every chance he gets. “We Armenians are the children of these lands and are bonded here by heart,” he said. “Do not misunderstand me. We respect the unity of Turkey. We love these lands as much as you do because we [too] are a part of it.”
On the matter of Armenian cultural artifacts within Turkish borders, Chuljyan said: “We can repair historical structures together, we can bring our experts together for that. The remains may be a part of the Armenian culture but they are Turkey’s legacy. All we want [from Turkey] is to not deny their ownership.”
When reminded of the possibility of reopening for prayer the historical church of Surp Haç on Akdamar Island in Van province in eastern Turkey, Chuljyan said: “I believe that the Turkish people have respect for all beliefs. I believe they will understand the importance of Surp Haç for Armenians.”
Mesrop II, the current patriarch, has fallen ill and was diagnosed with dementia. Chuljyan said Mesrop II has already earned his place in history books and commented on his sudden illness, which came in the aftermath of the assassination of Turkish-Armenian journalist Hrant Dink: “He received many threats and they damaged his health in an irrevocable way.”
When asked what he would do if he faced such threats, Chuljyan said: “Intelligent people full of the love of God do not seek solution in threats and conspiracies. Strong people who have faith in themselves overcome problems through dialogue.”
Thursday, February 18, 2010
VERCİHAN ZİFLİOĞLU
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News
For the first time in history, an Armenian candidate will likely head the Armenian Patriarchy of Turkey.
Armenian Apostolic Church Diocese of Gougark Bishop Sebouh Chuljyan Primate will be the 85th patriarch of Armenians in Turkey if he wins the elections expected to take place in May.
According to an 1861 Ottoman regulation that is applicable even today, a bishop can be the patriarch of Armenians in Turkey if his father was born in Turkey.
Speaking to the Hürriyet Daily News & Economic Review during a visit to Istanbul, Chuljyan delivered important messages not only to the Turkish and Armenian communities, but also to the Western world.
Speaking at the historical Armenian church of “Surp Kevork” (St. Gregory) at Kocamustafapaşa in Istanbul, Chuljyan said if he wins, then the patriarchy would be “kept away from politics.”
“We will not repeat the previous mistakes. Let politicians deal with politics. I will put effort into enhancing the dialogue between the Turkish and Armenian peoples,” he said. “We need to look deep in each other’s eyes and talk about grievances.”
Chuljyan also said the recent warming of bilateral relations is a historic milestone. He said steps must be taken immediately to re-establish official relations. “This chance to open the path of dialogue between the two peoples should not be missed. Time works against us,” he told the Daily News.
The bishop criticized the Western world’s mediation, also saying that Germany played a major role in the events of 1915. “Germany has not accepted its responsibility in the events of 1915 until today. It has always preferred to keep silent,” he said, adding that the innocent Armenian population in Anatolia went through great agonies in the past because of the “egocentric stance of the West.”
“The Western world has manipulated us for its benefits in Anatolia,” he said. “I would like to think that those who try to act as mediators between the Turkish and Armenian peoples are trying to get rid of the burden of their consciences. However, they have their interests in mind once again, in the form of the Caucasus.”
No need for mediators
Chuljyan said he believes Turkey and Armenia should start building dialogue immediately, without mediators. “There is no one who knows us better than us. Let us overcome our grievances together and start a dialogue,” he said.
Throughout the interview, Chuljyan kept his critical stance toward the Western world, addressing the West: “Do not add any more salt to our wounds, do not pit the two peoples against themselves for your interests.”
Chuljyan was actually born in Turkey, in the eastern province of Malatya, before migrating to Armenia at the age of 10 with his family. The bishop speaks Turkish fluently. If he is elected patriarch, he will apply for Turkish citizenship, provided the Turkish Republic approves. He said he would keep his Armenian citizenship and become a dual citizen.
Chuljyan said he visits Anatolia every chance he gets. “We Armenians are the children of these lands and are bonded here by heart,” he said. “Do not misunderstand me. We respect the unity of Turkey. We love these lands as much as you do because we [too] are a part of it.”
On the matter of Armenian cultural artifacts within Turkish borders, Chuljyan said: “We can repair historical structures together, we can bring our experts together for that. The remains may be a part of the Armenian culture but they are Turkey’s legacy. All we want [from Turkey] is to not deny their ownership.”
When reminded of the possibility of reopening for prayer the historical church of Surp Haç on Akdamar Island in Van province in eastern Turkey, Chuljyan said: “I believe that the Turkish people have respect for all beliefs. I believe they will understand the importance of Surp Haç for Armenians.”
Mesrop II, the current patriarch, has fallen ill and was diagnosed with dementia. Chuljyan said Mesrop II has already earned his place in history books and commented on his sudden illness, which came in the aftermath of the assassination of Turkish-Armenian journalist Hrant Dink: “He received many threats and they damaged his health in an irrevocable way.”
When asked what he would do if he faced such threats, Chuljyan said: “Intelligent people full of the love of God do not seek solution in threats and conspiracies. Strong people who have faith in themselves overcome problems through dialogue.”
16 Şubat 2010 Salı
Musicologist says ‘there is no place for
Monday, February 15, 2010
VERCİHAN ZİFLİOĞLU
ISTANBUL – Hürriyet Daily News
Leo Sarkisian, the first ethnomusicologist in the United States and legendary music specialist for the Voice of America, makes a call for peace, saying ‘There is no place for hate’Life goes on for the average person regardless of how the political debates and relations proceed between Turkey and Armenia.
Turkish and Armenian people who abstain from politics and look to the future without denying their past often like listening to same kinds of music and eating the same kinds of food. Despite all the past experiences, often identities become meaningless. In the remotest part of the world, a Turk, a Greek and an Armenian could become best friends and even share feelings of nostalgia and homesickness.
One of these people is 88-year-old Leo Sarkisian, whose roots go back to Anatolia. Leo Sarkisian bears the name of America’s first ethnomusicologist thanks to his work on ethnic music. He spent 45 years at the Voice of America, the official radio station of the United States, and a music library was founded in his name. He is also an admirer of Turkish Classical Music. Sarkisian is well-known for his research on Ottoman music as well. In the past, he has shared his research with the Center for Advanced Research in Music, or MIAM, at Istanbul Technical University.
‘Political debates get you nowhere’
“I strongly believe, and my close Turkish friends know that, there is no place for hate," Sarkisian said. He follows the Turkish press and developments about Turkey from day to day despite his old age, but he thinks political debates gets people nowhere.
He has traveled around the world for his music research, but he had his most interesting experience in Afghanistan. Turkish diplomats in Afghanistan brought together Sarkisian and Turks serving as peace forces in the country. He sang Anatolian folk songs with the soldiers all together without arguing about “you and I” matters. "History cannot be wiped out, but changes will take place. My travels to so many countries around the world, meeting so many different people of different religions, beliefs and cultures have also changed me and given me a new perspective in the direction of our lives," he said.
BOX
Leo Sarkisian was offered the job of music director at a company called Tempo, which was linked to Hollywood, when he was just 32 years old in 1953. He immediately accepted the offer and started working. He then received an education as a sound recording engineer and was sent to the Middle East and Caucasus for 3.5 years for music research. Thanks to his research, he assumed the title of the United States’ first ethnomusicologist. When he returned to America, he started to prepare programs for Voice of America, where he worked for 45 years. A music library was founded in his name.
Monday, February 15, 2010
VERCİHAN ZİFLİOĞLU
ISTANBUL – Hürriyet Daily News
Leo Sarkisian, the first ethnomusicologist in the United States and legendary music specialist for the Voice of America, makes a call for peace, saying ‘There is no place for hate’Life goes on for the average person regardless of how the political debates and relations proceed between Turkey and Armenia.
Turkish and Armenian people who abstain from politics and look to the future without denying their past often like listening to same kinds of music and eating the same kinds of food. Despite all the past experiences, often identities become meaningless. In the remotest part of the world, a Turk, a Greek and an Armenian could become best friends and even share feelings of nostalgia and homesickness.
One of these people is 88-year-old Leo Sarkisian, whose roots go back to Anatolia. Leo Sarkisian bears the name of America’s first ethnomusicologist thanks to his work on ethnic music. He spent 45 years at the Voice of America, the official radio station of the United States, and a music library was founded in his name. He is also an admirer of Turkish Classical Music. Sarkisian is well-known for his research on Ottoman music as well. In the past, he has shared his research with the Center for Advanced Research in Music, or MIAM, at Istanbul Technical University.
‘Political debates get you nowhere’
“I strongly believe, and my close Turkish friends know that, there is no place for hate," Sarkisian said. He follows the Turkish press and developments about Turkey from day to day despite his old age, but he thinks political debates gets people nowhere.
He has traveled around the world for his music research, but he had his most interesting experience in Afghanistan. Turkish diplomats in Afghanistan brought together Sarkisian and Turks serving as peace forces in the country. He sang Anatolian folk songs with the soldiers all together without arguing about “you and I” matters. "History cannot be wiped out, but changes will take place. My travels to so many countries around the world, meeting so many different people of different religions, beliefs and cultures have also changed me and given me a new perspective in the direction of our lives," he said.
BOX
Leo Sarkisian was offered the job of music director at a company called Tempo, which was linked to Hollywood, when he was just 32 years old in 1953. He immediately accepted the offer and started working. He then received an education as a sound recording engineer and was sent to the Middle East and Caucasus for 3.5 years for music research. Thanks to his research, he assumed the title of the United States’ first ethnomusicologist. When he returned to America, he started to prepare programs for Voice of America, where he worked for 45 years. A music library was founded in his name.
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