Armenian cultural worker speaks of art, culture, country’s major problems

Gusan Haykazun, Art Director of the Haykazunk folk song and dance company, talked to Tert.am about the role and dissemination of Armenian folk songs and music as well as about his concerns over the current situation in the country.

“Our nation needs our folk and patriotic songs as air – both in Armenia and throughout the Armenian Diaspora. Unfortunately, the government is not sponsoring this field. Our moneybags and officials prefer low-class songs. Our folk songs live on due to enthusiasts. With difficulties we are moving forward.

“Yes, folk and patriotic songs, which are of national value, are being composed now. Since 1988 I have composed about 100 songs, and at least 15 or 20 of them are well-known. Over the past ten years, the title of gusan (folk singer) has been conferred on four composers. Each period has its popular songs, and we should not be contented with what we have now. People need refreshing.

“I took part in the Artsakh [Nagorno-Karabakh] war. If only you could hear the songs sung on the battlefield! Good songs' role for soldiers was like heavy artillery's role. In peacetime, we have given five or six concerts in Armenia's regions this year. In hundreds of schools we have participated in different events. Young people have changed for the better. Although they listen to songs of different styles, they are giving priority to folk songs. But I would note TV's negative role, and the people are accepting all they are shown,” Haykazun said.

As regards the emigration problem, he said that it has been a concern for many years, but the situation in changing now.

“Let us hope for the better. But if things go on like this, Armenia’s people has to do nothing but carry out revolution. But such a situation poses a threat to the nation. We must prevent emigration. Armenia must be turned into a paradise on earth, and we have all the preconditions for it.”