In Good Graces
For Armenians in Uruguay, dignity and respect are a right, not a privilege
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September 29, 2025
AGBU Arts Presents Sold-Out Concert Celebrating Armenian Music and Culture at AGBU Vatche & Tamar Manoukian Performing Arts Center
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Viza electrifies the stage with a high-energy performance that brought the audience to its feet.
The AGBU (Armenian General Benevolent Union) Western Region, in collaboration with the AGBU Arts, proudly presented a sold-out concert on September 6 at the AGBU Vatche & Tamar Manoukian Performing Arts Center, uniting the community in an unforgettable evening of music and culture.
The program opened with the AGBU Noor Ensemble, a 14-piece orchestral group whose eclectic arrangements reimagined beloved Armenian classics with contemporary creativity, setting an inspiring tone for the night. The AGBU Noor Ensemble, comprised of talented musicians, is a program under the AGBU Pasadena-Glendale Chapter that performs at various events throughout the year. The ensemble is led by Band Conductor and AGBU Alumnus, Hovig Tabakian, whose leadership brings their performances to life. Young starlet Krista Marina followed with a moving performance of original tracks, accompanied by musicians and impressing audiences with her soulful talent.
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Krista Marina captivates the audience with her soulful performance of “Yalla Yalla.”
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The AGBU Noor Ensemble wows the audience with a powerful and dynamic reinterpretation of Armenian classics.
The evening culminated with an electrifying performance by Viza, whose 15-song set and double encore drew standing ovations from the packed house. Marking two decades of music-making, the band was honored during the program with official commendations from both the City of Los Angeles and the City of Glendale. The certificates recognized Viza’s 20 years of artistic achievement, dedication to raising awareness for the Armenian Cause, humanitarian initiatives, and fundraising for youth programs in Armenia and the diaspora.
“The concert was a celebration not only of exceptional artistry, but also of the shared values and cultural pride that unite our community,” said Gohar Stambolyan, Executive Director of AGBU Western Region. “The evening was further enriched by the Noor Ensemble, under the leadership of distinguished AGBU alumni, whose performance added depth and distinction to the event. This memorable occasion underscores AGBU’s commitment to fostering dynamic cultural offerings that both preserve our heritage and inspire future generations.”
This landmark event highlighted AGBU’s enduring commitment to advancing cultural enrichment by creating meaningful platforms for artists, empowering emerging talent to reach new heights, and fostering connections that bring communities together across borders. AGBU Arts continues to foster creativity across the Western Region by curating exceptional concert experiences that celebrate Armenian identity and deepen the cultural ties between Armenia and the diaspora.
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Lead singer, Knoup Tomopoulos delivers commanding performance.
Photography credit: Jake Hagopian
