Today, we are thrilled to introduce the recipients of the Sona Hamalian Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship, generously established by Prof. Arpi Hamalian in memory of her late sister, Sona, provides critical support to young musicians as they pursue their artistic dreams. These youths are not only representatives of world-class culture but also ambassadors of classical music and Armenia on the world stage.
Prof. Hamalian’s contributions extend far beyond this scholarship. In 2022, she played a vital role in financing the Zartonk Music Academy sessions in Artsakh, a program that brought inspiration and hope to the region. Tragically, these sessions became the last major cultural initiative in Artsakh before the devastating Azeri-led genocide and ethnic cleansing in 2023.
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Meet the 2024-25 Scholarship Recipients:
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Yelena Torosyan, a 20-year-old qanon player and student at the Komitas State Conservatory, exemplifies the power of music to heal. Alongside her studies, Yelena pays it forward by volunteering at a local children’s hospital, where she performs for young cancer patients. Her scholarship covers most of her tuition, enabling her to continue her studies and inspiring work.
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Arsen Balayan, 17, is an extraordinary clarinetist with world-class potential. The scholarship funds extra lessons for Arsen with Arsen Grigoryan, the principal clarinetist of the Armenian National Philharmonic Orchestra. These lessons are a stepping stone in his journey to becoming one of the finest clarinetists of his generation.
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Mari Danielyan, 16, is a rising star whose talent we saw first-hand at Zartonk 2024 this summer in Yerevan. Mari recently achieved a significant milestone by winning a competition that earns her the chance to perform a concerto with the world-renowned Saint Petersburg Symphony Orchestra in the 2025-26 Season! This scholarship, for instance, enabled her to travel to the competition and WIN! Her dedication and artistry promise a bright future!
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Arsen Karapetyan, 14, is a remarkable young pianist from the Armenian-populated region of Javakhk in Georgia. This scholarship supports his travel expenses to Tbilisi and other costs, where he studies with Nino Katamadze, Georgia’s leading piano instructor. Arsen has travelled to Paris on several occasions as a member of the prestigious SOS Talents Foundation, led by renowned piano pedagogue Michel Sogny.
To the scholarship winners, congratulations on this well-deserved honour—we are proud to support your journeys. To Prof. Hamalian, we extend our deepest gratitude for empowering the next generation of musicians.
