Applications Now Being Accepted for AGBU Musical Armenia Program

Three Custom Packages Introduced for Summer 2014

The AGBU Performing Arts Department is now accepting applications to its flagship summer initiative, the Musical Armenia Program (MAP). This year, MAP is introducing three new program packages and is encouraging international artists of all backgrounds, in addition to Armenian musicians, to participate. The deadline to apply is May 15, 2014.

MAP offers an exciting three-week cultural immersion experience and a comprehensive curriculum that connects aspiring and professional artists with Armenia’s rich musical heritage. While living in Yerevan, participants take master classes and specialized lectures, train and network with top musicians, perform at local venues, and attend concerts and festivals. They also tour the country, visiting historical landmarks and traveling to the Nagorno Karabagh Republic on an optional trip.

Several past MAP participants have extended their stay in Armenia. Violinist Wanes Moubayed is currently teaching at two music schools in Yerevan, collaborating with the Sistema Armenia Children’s Orchestra and studying at the Komitas State Conservatory. Arni Guiragossian is also studying at the Komitas State Conservatory and plays the flute in the State Youth Orchestra. While violinist Arpi Dekrmenjian is enrolled at Yerevan State University, pianist/singer Berna Karagulian is leading tours at the Matenadaran Institute of Ancient Books.

Shaghig Amy Kazandjian, a native Canadian and MAP 2013 participant, landed a contract with the Yerevan State Opera and Ballet Orchestra after meeting its director at a MAP event. “Through MAP, I was able to explore Armenia and embrace my culture, history, and identity in ways I never could have imagined,” she said. “Being able to play the French horn with the orchestra is a once in a lifetime opportunity that I know I will look back on years from now as one of the highlights of my career—thanks to the AGBU.”

In just three years since its launch, MAP has already expanded rapidly, and in summer 2014 applicants may choose from three new customized packages. The Full Immersion package is open to students ages 18 and older, who will live with peers in an AGBU residence and enroll in all MAP courses and activities. The MAP Academy is open to students ages 15 and older who will secure their own housing and enjoy all of the benefits of the Full Immersion package. The MAP Lecture Series package also welcomes participants 15 and older who will secure their own housing and enroll in 12 lectures exclusively on the history of Armenian music.

MAP applicants must have training in composition or conducting or as instrumentalists or vocalists. The program dates are July 14-Aug. 3, 2014, and the application to apply for financial aid is June 5.

The AGBU Performing Arts Department is happy to introduce prospective participants to MAP alumni to learn more about their experiences with the program. For more information, e-mail musicalarmenia@agbu.org or call (212) 319-6383, extension 106.

To apply today, visit www.agbu.org/musicalarmenia. For more information about AGBU and its worldwide programs, visit www.agbu.org.