YEREVAN, OCTOBER 25, ARMENPRESS. Famous French accordionist Richard Galliano considers Charles Aznavour the symbol of Armenian-French friendship. “Sacred monster of jazz” Galliano is again in Armenia to give concerts for Armenian music lovers. The famous accordionist gave a concert at “Mezzo” club, after which gave an interview to “Armenpress”.

This is not Galliano’s first visit to Armenia

I feel a little depressed, because I always fail to remain here for a long time. I pay a very short visit: conduct a repetition and give a concert. I first visited here with my wife; we stayed a little longer and managed to visit some sights. Next time I, together with Vahan Martirosyan (Art Director and Chief Conductor of National Chamber Orchestra of Armenia-edit.), hope to bring into life a project and perform Armenian music, including the pieces of Aznavour. Probably that project will be ready in one or 1.5 year.

Cooperation with Charles Aznavour

I have a record with Aznavour dating back 30 years. Recently, I came across a CD that we recorded in 1983. But we always held professional meetings. He is a real professional. I think that we must honor him and introduce his music next year.

Galliano about his nickname “Sacred monster of jazz”

Those who love me call me in that way. But maybe there are some others, who do not like me and call me in another way for sure.

Ástor Piazzolla helped me very much

I have never been Piazzolla’s student. He has helped me to realize my goals, to create my own music. Later I dedicated some of my pieces to the memory of Piazzolla.

My father used to play the accordion

I have not chosen a musical instrument for myself. I saw my father playing the accordion when I was a child. I wanted to imitate him.

..There are wonderful accordionists here, in the world. The only difficulty is that it is a quite heavy instrument, it weights nearly 13 kgs. But I must try to overcome it (he smiles).

Galliano will give a concert with the National Chamber Orchestra of Armenia on October 25

I think there will be quite a large audience. I have to mention that I held a repetition with the musicians and it was great.

Richard Galliano was born in France in 1950. He started to play the piano and accordion since 4 years. His first teacher was his father Luciano Galliano. He continued the studies at the Academy of Music in Nice.  Galliano won twice the first prize in the "world accordion cap competition" which took place in Spain (1966) and France (1967).

Roza Grigoryan