Ara Topouzian Trio
An Evening of Traditional Armenian Music
Saturday, November 20th @ 8:00 PM
Kerrytown Concert House brings the world to the House with this special cultural presentation. Ara Topouzian takes the audience on a musical historical journey, leading his ensemble on kanun (ancient Middle Eastern Zither harp) and joined by Mark Gavoor (oud) and Jerry Gerjekian (dumbegs). Together, the group performs traditional Armenian songs as well as other Middle Eastern favorites while also sharing personal stories and memories.
COVID-19 Safety Policy for Indoor Concerts
- Moving forward, all patrons and artists who wish to attend or present performances indoors at KCH must provide a valid, complete COVID-19 vaccination card OR proof of a negative COVID-19 test performed within the previous 72 hours prior to entry. Such proof must be presented at concert check-in, may be displayed on a smartphone OR presented as a physical copy, and must also be accompanied by a matching, valid ID for verification.**
- Additionally, according to current CDC recommendations, masks are required for audiences inside the House and can only be removed when seated with a beverage (when available). When performing, artists may wear a mask, or not, at their own discretion.
**Proof of vaccination exceptions will be made for children under 12 and people with a medical condition or closely held religious beliefs that prevent vaccination. These guests must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within the previous 72 hours prior to entry.
Ara Topouzian is an Armenian-American musician whose proficiency at the Kanun (Middle Eastern harp) has made him a nationally-recognized artist. He has performed at concerts, music festivals and many celebrated venues across the United States, with some of the top musicians of Armenian and Middle Eastern music. Topouzian’s traditional music style keeps to his Armenian heritage but has expanded to include music from around the Middle East with jazz, fusion, and new age influences. The recipient of numerous awards, Topouzian’s music has been heard and sold around the globe. In 2012, Kresge Arts of Detroit recognized Topouzian with a Kresge Arts Fellowship for his achievements and contributions to his craft. In 2018, Governor Rick Snyder appointed Topouzian to the Michigan Council of Arts & Cultural Affairs. The council works to increase and broaden the influence of arts and culture within Michigan communities. He was re-appointed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer in 2020. In 2019, during a global pandemic, Topouzian represented the State of Michigan performing Armenian music for The Kennedy Center. Arts Across America was a digital series presented nationwide to uplift and showcase artists throughout the nation.
Mark Gavoor has performed with Armenian and Middle Eastern ensembles throughout the Midwest and East coast. A graduate from University of Michigan, Mark has performed extensively for decades. Mark and Ara recorded two albums that helped raise funds for Armenian charities around the globe.
Jerry Gerjekian has been playing Armenian and Middle Eastern music for over thirty years in the Detroit area. A skilled percussionist, he has played festivals, nightclubs and Armenian events throughout his musical career.
