Leo Sarkisian Appears on ‘Focus with Ellian’

The 91-year-old broadcaster, diplomat, and Voice of America broadcaster was recruited personally by Edward R. Murrow some 50 years ago, and has hosted an African music show, traveling and living in many African states. Thus, he was a natural choice to appear as a guest on “Focus with Haig Ellian,” an award-winning public affairs talk show, now in its 23^rd year, that has received multiple awards over the years.

Guests in the past have included Helen Thomas, Senator Helen Mikulski, Congressman Chris VanHollen, Peter Balakian, Ambassador Edward Alexander, Ambassador Johnny Young, and Author John McCormac, the ambassador to Benghazi.

It came as no surprise that the show won a Monty (localized Emmy Award) at the recent awards ceremonies in Rockville, Md. As the award was announced by emcee and veteran broadcaster Don Moor, a clip showing Haig Ellian and Leo Sarksian came on the screen, with Sarkisian playing a kanoun. Leo was asked if he was going to play an African piece, and his reply was terse and to the point—“No, Armenian”—as he strummed a classical Armenian piece, as only he could. Sarkisian is an outstanding kanounist and has played at many Armenian functions.

Moor went on to say that Focus was the best show on TV and that everyone, nationwide and worldwide, should watch it. The comments were unusual for an emcee, and brought cheers from the house.

Director Tom Hoopengardener and Technical Editor Russell Belcher taped the show on location in Sarkisian’s Silver Spring, Md., studios, which display dozens of his award-winning paintings. (The show can be seen online by searching for “Focus with Haig Ellian,” and selecting “episode 78.”)

Sarkisian also has a music library named after him at VAO headquarters. Ellian is a lawyer, former newsman, congressional and vice presidential staffer, and a practicing attorney. He can be reached at Hyelawyer@aol.com.