On Sunday, March 8, 2026, the community of the Holy Resurrection Armenian Apostolic Church in Redmond gathered for a memorable cultural celebration honoring the 115th anniversary of the renowned Armenian-American composer Alan Hovhaness (1911–2000). The event brought together members of the Armenian community, musicians, scholars, and admirers of Hovhaness’s music for an afternoon devoted to remembrance, reflection, and artistic tribute.
At the heart of the program was the presentation of a deeply personal memoir written by the composer’s late wife, Hinako Fujihara Hovhaness (1932–2022), a Japanese-born soprano and founder of the Hovhaness-Fujihara Music Company. Drawing upon her poetry, journals, and decades of personal reflections, the book offers a rare and intimate portrait of the composer, illuminating not only his artistic philosophy but also the profound partnership that shaped their shared creative life.
The memoir was co-authored with her son, William Holst, who serves as the curator of the Hovhaness legacy and the family archivist. William Holst and his wife, Coleen, were present at the event, sharing in the celebration and helping to preserve and promote the composer’s enduring artistic heritage.
The afternoon’s program was enriched by musical performances from distinguished local artists, including Armine and Anahit Naghdyan, Alisa Sargsyan, and Gayane Grigoryan, as well as the Armenian Apostolic Church Choir under the direction of Varser Sargsyan. Their performances brought to life the luminous and contemplative spirit of Hovhaness’s music, known for their profound spirituality, meditative beauty, and unique synthesis of Eastern and Western musical traditions. Through soaring melodies and timeless harmonies, his compositions continue to speak to audiences across generations, inviting listeners into a world of quiet reflection and transcendence.
The event was gracefully hosted by master of ceremonies Franz Badoyan, who delivered a heartfelt reflection on the composer’s extraordinary creative output and lasting influence on the musical world. The program concluded with a blessing of the book performed by Der Vazgen Boyajyan, who offered his prayers and best wishes for the success of this meaningful publication.
More than a commemorative gathering, the event became a celebration of artistic memory and cultural continuity. It served as a reminder that the music of Alan Hovhaness continues to resonate far beyond his lifetime, inspiring new generations of musicians and listeners.
