Soprano Isabel Bayrakdarian Launches East Coast and Canada Tour
NEW YORK — Soprano Isabel Bayrakdarian will present a unique program at her upcoming concerts in New York City this November. The show, titled Ancestral Songs, Prayers and Lullabies, features a collection rooted in a tradition started by Gomidas and carried on by his students Parsegh Ganatchian and Mihran Toumajan.
Insights from Bayrakdarian on Her Musical Journey
In a conversation with Lisa Terrizzi from the Friends of Armenian Cultural Society, the organizer of Bayrakdarian’s Boston performance, the soprano reflected on her path from choir singer to acclaimed international artist. She emphasized her continuous dedication to exploring and sharing Armenian musical treasures.
Early Influences and Passion for Voice
- Lisa Terrizzi (L.T.): Did you grow up in a musical household, and what attracted you to singing?
- Isabel Bayrakdarian (I.B.): “My first love has always been Armenian sacred music. Discovering and singing our ancient hymns has been a deeply personal experience, guiding me spiritually and artistically. I grew up playing piano and singing in the Armenian church choir in Lebanon. Taking voice lessons in my late teens in Canada came from a desire to pray boldly and communicate with God through strong, fearless singing supported by proper technique.”
“Singing and discovering our beautiful and ancient hymns has been a path forward, inward and upward, making for a uniquely personal journey.”
Through this tour, Bayrakdarian continues her mission to illuminate Armenian heritage and spirituality by bridging past and present musical expressions.
Author’s summary: Isabel Bayrakdarian’s upcoming concerts celebrate Armenian sacred music’s rich tradition, reflecting her personal and artistic devotion to its preservation and expression.