Youth Choir Workshop Inspires Students from Eastern Diocese
From July 9–13, 2025, the 4th annual Yn. Diane Chevian Memorial Youth Choir Workshop welcomed 24 musically talented youth from parishes across the Eastern Diocese to St. Nersess Armenian Seminary. The intensive five-day program provided participants with a meaningful opportunity to deepen their understanding of the Armenian Church’s sacred music and develop their vocal and liturgical skills.
Directed by Fr. Haroutiun Sabounjian, pastor of the Armenian Church of the Holy Resurrection in New Britain, CT, and assisted by his wife, Yn. Lucine Sabounjian, the workshop was led by a capable team of clergy and musicians. Faculty included Fr. Hovhan Khoja-Eynatyan, pastor of St. James Armenian Church in Evanston, IL and Director of the Eastern Diocese’s Sacred Music Council, Ephi Kastanas, Emily Terjimanian, and counselors Serien Keleshian and Subdn. David Marottolo. Fr. Mardiros Chevian, Dean, was present during the conference and supported the directors and staff.
Participants studied the Ekmalian Badarak in four-part harmony, receiving instruction in vocal technique, conductor cues, and hymns. Students also took part in daily Matins and Vespers, serving as deacons, choir members, and readers, and built camaraderie through team-building and group activities.
On the second day, the group was honored by a visit from Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan, Primate of the Eastern Diocese and President of the St. Nersess Board of Directors, who shared, “Remember, when you use your gifts to honor God, He will open doors you never imagined! Keep shining, keep singing, and know that God’s favor is upon you.”
Some participants also attended the Eastern Diocese’s Sacred Music Council’s Boyajian Young Choir Directors Program a few days prior to the workshop at the seminary.
“The St. Nersess Choir Workshop is especially meaningful as it is dedicated to the memory of Yn. Diane Chevian, whose passion for our church music and tireless service to the Armenian Church continue to inspire us all,” commented Fr. Hovhan. “Seeing these young musicians learn, grow, and lead in worship felt like the perfect way to honor her legacy – a reminder that her love for sacred music lives on in the young generation.”
The program concluded with a Sunday Divine Liturgy, celebrated by Fr. Hovhan Khoja-Eynatyan, where the students formed the choir. A Hokehankisd service was offered in memory of Yn. Diane Chevian, honoring the workshop’s namesake and inspiration.
Fr. Haroutiun Sabounjian reflected on the spiritual impact. “Each year I am amazed at how these young people, with varying musical backgrounds, come together after only a few days to sing the Divine Liturgy in harmony. I truly believe the Holy Spirit is at work, transforming their efforts into something holy. Yn. Diane would be so proud of this extraordinary group.”
The workshop is offered free of charge, supported by the Yn. Diane Chevian Memorial Fund, established through generous donations following her passing in 2021. Contributions to the fund are still being accepted to ensure the continuation of this meaningful program.
Fr. Mardiros Chevian, Dean of St. Nersess Seminary, added “It is truly inspiring to witness so many young people so devoted to learning the music of our Church.”
“It was such a joy to see our participants connecting with other young choir members and learning how to sing the hymns of the Badarak with such passion & excitement. Our sacred music is such a blessing,” shared Yn. Lucine Sabounjian.
Special thanks to Zovig Ashjian and Lauren Kayaian, who prepared meals throughout the week and offered support behind the scenes.
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