Armenstock
Armenstock 2004 - Kef for Kerry, a day-long music festival in celebration of John Kerry's nomination for President, was held on August 28, 2004 at Camp Haiastan, in Franklin, Masssachusetts. Combining a celebration of Armenian music with political activism, it brought together some of the best Armenian musicians from both coasts to help kick-off a nationwide voter mobilization and get-out-the-Armenian-vote campaign for the fall of 2004.
Armenstock 2004 is fortunate to have an abundance of world class musicians who have gained fame elsewhere, yet, have had limited exposure to New England audiences. The historic pairing of OudMasters John Bilezikjian and John Berberian will mark their first public appearance together with this being Mr. Bilezikjian's Boston area debut. Armenia natives Gor Mkhitarian and members of the Cascade Folk Trio separately bring the music directly from Armenia to our stage this year in the form of underground folk- rock and urban pop genres respectively. Emerging jazz great Vardan Ovsepian brings his cerebral style of composition and keyboard performance back to the New England stage. Local favorites Arev Armenian Folk Ensemble display their continued dedication to creating music by using authentic Armenian folk instruments. Finally, it is our pleasure to introduce the legendary Armenian Avant Garde Folk artist and percussionist Arto Tuncboyaciyan to Camp Haiastan in his debut Boston area solo show featuring his unique brand of composed and improvisational music. Enjoy the music and support Armenian artists.
- 10:00 am - Doors open
- 11:00 am - Arev Armenian Folk Ensemble
- 12:00 pm - Vardan Ovsepian Jazz Group
- 1:00 pm - Gor Mkhitarian with John Berberian
- 2:00 pm - John Berberian Solo Show with Ara Dinkjian
- 3:00 pm - Cascade Folk Trio
- 4:00 pm - John Bilezikjian Solo Show
- 5:00 pm - John Berberian Ensemble Featuring John Bilezikjian
- 6:30-8:00 pm - Arto Tuncboyaciyan Solo Performance (in Camp Hall)