YEREVAN, OCTOBER 10, ARMENPRESS. Legendary French-Armenian singer Charles Aznavour visited Komitas Museum-Institute on October 10. After familiarizing himself with the exhibits of the cultural center, the legendary singer left a note in the memory book of the museum: “We never fully recognize the works of art we admire. One hour spent in this museum taught us lots of things and enriched us.”

When sharing his impressions with “Armenpress”, world famous singer emphasized: “It is e very beautiful museum. I thought what we were going to do in this museum. It seemed to me a rather big place, but now I think it’s very small.” Aznavour confesses that Komitas did not have any influence on his creative activity. Seeing sculptures of Komitas, Aznavour noted:

“When I gave my first concert in Armenia, a sculptor approached me; he made my sculpture. I must send it to Armenia.”

Director of Komitas Museum-Institute Nikolay Konstandyan presented Charles Aznavour with Komitas album of 8 CDs.

Konstandyan noted that Charles Aznavour’s presence was a great honour for the institution named after Komitas.

Charles Aznavour (born Shahnour Varinag Aznavourian) was born 22 May 1924. He is a French and Armenian singer, songwriter, actor, public activist and diplomat. Aznavour is known for his unique tenor voice: clear and ringing in its upper reaches, with gravelly and profound low notes. He has written more than 1,200 songs, sung in eight languages, sold more than 180 million records. He is one of France's most popular and enduring singers. He has been dubbed France's Frank Sinatra, while music critic Stephen Holden has described Aznavour as "French pop deity." He is also arguably the most famous Armenian of his time. In 1998, Aznavour was named Entertainer of the Century by CNN and users of Time Online from around the globe. He was recognized as the century's outstanding performer, with nearly 18% of the total vote, edging out Elvis Presley and Bob Dylan.

He has sung for presidents, popes and royalty, as well as at humanitarian events. In response to the 1988 Armenian earthquake, he founded the charitable organization Aznavour for Armenia along with his long-time friend impresario Levon Sayan. In 2009, he was appointed ambassador of Armenia to Switzerland, as well as Armenia's permanent delegate to the United Nations at Geneva. Aznavour is the longest standing “A list” star, still filling major venues all over the world.

Photos by Felix Arustamyan