International Children’s Day with EU and “Armenian Virtuosos”

On the occasion of International Children’s Day, the European Union Delegation to Armenia jointly with the Music for Future Foundation, organized an event dedicated to the Children’s International Day, “Armenian Virtuosos” Educational and Development Program and classical music. The event was opened by the welcoming remarks of His Excellency Vassilis Maragos, Ambassador of the European Union to Armenia. Ambassadors and representatives of diplomatic missions from Italy, Switzerland, the United States, Bulgaria, Hungary, Cyprus, and other countries, together with partners and friends of the Foundation attended the event.

The evening highlighted the importance of supporting children’s education and artistic development, reaffirming a shared commitment to nurturing the next generation through culture and music.

Welcoming remarks were delivered by the EU Ambassador to Armenia, Vassilis Maragos, who stated:

“Today is an important day as we celebrate International Children’s Day together, honoring childhood, joy, and the future of children, and also celebrating Armenian talent together with the young musicians of the ‘Armenian Virtuosos’ Program.

Children are our future, and it is our duty to ensure that every child grows up in a safe and caring environment with equal opportunities. We must support children and youth in Armenia through educational programs, ensuring that every child has access to safety, quality education, and the opportunity to realize their full potential.”

The evening also featured remarks by Maestro Sergey Smbatyan, Founder of the “Armenian Virtuosos” Program, who stated:

“The European Union represents a strong cultural partner for us, and the links between the performing arts, Armenian culture, and Europe are very strong. We are proud of our history and roots, but we are equally focused on future talents and connecting our present with the young musicians you will hear tonight.

This project was born out of love and responsibility. When children feel their talent is seen and supported, they become stronger. We are investing in their education by bringing masterclasses, knowledge, and international experience to Armenia through my European colleagues.

I believe this is an opportunity to build a positive future. Performing arts is a language of communication, and I am grateful for these possibilities and for the trust in our young talents.”

The concert program, titled “Armenian Virtuosos’ Journey Across Europe,” brought together young musicians, creating a cultural dialogue through music. The program featured works by Yuri Gevorkyan, Johann Sebastian Bach, Jules Massenet, David Popper, and Frédéric Chopin, and concluded with Ludwig van Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy,” performed by the Armenian Virtuosos Ensemble, the Anthem of Europe, symbolizing unity, peace, and shared European values.

The event served as a celebration of International Children’s Day and a reminder of the role of music in building bridges between cultures and inspiring the next generation of virtuosos.