The premiere of a concert titled KOMITAS Jazz performed by the renowned composer and beloved by generations of Yerevan bard Forsh and violinist, winner of international competitions, soloist of the New Russia National Symphony Orchestra of Russia (conducted by Youri Bashmet) Sona Azarian and Re Minor Ensemble, took place on August 8, 2012 at the Special Events Auditorium of the Cafesjian Center for the Arts (CCA) as part of the Cafesjian Classical Music Series.
The evening was led by the well-known pianist in Armenia and Russia, Madat Avanesov who, together with Sona and Forsh, selected several compositions by Komitas and arranged the latter in a modern style and turned into a real pearl of Armenian folk jazz music. The lyrics were performed in an elegant frame of classical and jazz instruments. The string quartet consisted of known Armenian classical musicians, soloists of the National Chamber Orchestra of Armenia and Anna Harutyunyan (cello).
The creative tandem of Forsh and Sona Azaryan arose as a result of many years of friendship and great love for the authentic Armenian music, the heritage of their nation and genius music of Komitas, founder of Armenian classical music, priest and composer of the 20th century.
The concert was attended by 130 people and was greatly enjoyed by the audience. A lot of thank-you notes and words of appreciation were expressed after the concert by the audience and performers.