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The 5th Khachaturian International Festival launched with a unique concert program. Music and literature – the most powerful forms of the art were intertwined on the stage of the Aram Khachaturian Concert Hall. This unity was even more influential because it was presented by the greatest actor of our days, John Malkovich, the press service of the festival reported.

Accompanied by the orchestra Malkovich performed as a narrator. “Report on the Blind” chapter from Argentine writer Ernesto Sabato’s “On Heroes and Tombs” novel (with Armenian translation on the screen) jointly performed with the Concerto for Piano and Orchestra by Alfred Schnittke. Pianist Anastasya Terenkova performed with the State Youth Orchestra of Armenia.

Hollywood legend surprised audience presenting English translation of an excerpt from the "Book of Lamentations" by Gregory of Narek, while the orchestra performed Symphony “Confession” by Vard Manukyan.  

The Artistic Director and Principal Conductor of the State Youth Orchestra of Armenia Sergey Smbatyan noted that Malkovich wasn’t supposed to present Armenian literary work. The actor himself wanted to present something by Armenian writers. The organizers of the festival suggested Malkovich to present "Book of Lamentations" by Gregory of Narek, and they were surprised to find out that Malkovich is well aware of the medieval Armenian poet’s and philosopher's art. Moreover, he knew which excerpt he wanted to present. 

According to maestro Smbatyan, the message of the concert is very important. “John believes that what happens in the format of music and text can change a person,” Sergey Smbatyan noted.

Symphony for Timpani and String Orchestra by Edward Mirzoyan (timpani solo by Eduard Papoyan) was also presented during the opening ceremony of the festival.

The official partner of John Malkovich’s exclusive concert is the legendary Ararat Armenian brandy.

The 5th Khachaturian International Festival, which is held from October 11 to December 11, is dedicated to the 200th anniversary of Hovhannes Aivazovsky. The festival is held under the high patronage of the Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan. It is implemented thanks to the joint efforts of the State Youth Orchestra of Armenia (General Partner of the Orchestra – VivaCell-MTS), with the support of the Ministry of Culture and the “Khachaturian” Foundation.