10th “Armenia” International Music Festival

10th “Armenia” International Music Festival                                                          

September 9 - October 15, 2026 

Celebrating a decade of artistic excellence, cultural dialogue, and the enduring power of music, the 10th anniversary edition of the “Armenia” International Music Festival returns to Yerevan from September 9 to October 15, 2026. Marking a significant milestone in Armenia’s artistic landscape, the festival will open the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra’s new concert season with a series of exceptional symphonic performances featuring world-renowned artists, distinguished conductors and masterpieces from both the classical and contemporary repertoire.

Since its establishment in 2017 through the vision and dedication of Sergey Smbatyan, Artistic Director and Principal Conductor of the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra, the “Armenia” International Music Festival has grown into one of the country's most prominent cultural platforms, welcoming internationally acclaimed musicians and audiences from around the world.

Organized in partnership with the Tourism Committee of the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Armenia, the festival continues to showcase Armenia’s rich cultural heritage, promote cross-border artistic collaboration and strengthen the country’s presence on the global classical music scene. The 10th edition will present four symphonic concerts at the Aram Khachaturian Concert Hall, presenting an outstanding lineup of internationally recognized performers and conductors.

The festival will open on September 9 with a concert “The Firebird”, featuring acclaimed pianist Behzod Abduraimov and conductor Sergey Smbatyan. The program will include Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1 in B-flat minor, alongside Leonard Bernstein’s Overture to Candide, Manuel de Falla’s Ritual Fire Dance from the ballet The Bewitched Love, and Igor Stravinsky’s iconic The Firebird Suite (1919 version).

On September 16, conductor Gianluca Marcianò will lead the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra in a special program featuring violinist Diana Adamyan and cellist Benjamin Kruithof. The concert will highlight Johannes Brahms’ Double Concerto for Violin, Cello and Orchestra in A minor, presented alongside Alexander Arutiunian’s Festive Waltz and Edward Mirzoyan’s symphonic poem Sako of Lori. The third concert, taking place on September 30, will be conducted by the internationally renowned Ion Marin. The program will include Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Symphony No. 38 in D major, K. 504 “Prague” and Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4 in F minor - two masterpieces representing the brilliance of the Classical and Romantic symphonic traditions.

The festival will conclude on October 15 with a concert conducted by Georgios Balatsinos. Bringing together Armenian and international contemporary voices, the program will comprise Vardan Adjemian’s Festive Overture, Edward Mirzoyan’s Symphonic Poem, Giorgos Koumendakis’ Amor Fati, Dimitris Papadimitriou’s Incompleteness for Orchestra, and Dmitri Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 1.

Through its milestone 10th edition, the “Armenia” International Music Festival remains committed to offering  exceptional musical experiences, fostering international collaboration and celebrating the universal language of music. More than a festival, “Armenia” International Music Festival has become a symbol of artistic connection and cultural exchange, uniting musicians, audiences and visitors from across the globe. It offers a unique opportunity to experience Armenia’s vibrant cultural atmosphere, discover its rich musical traditions and enjoy unforgettable evenings in Yerevan.

For more information about the festival program and tickets, please visit: https://www.armsymphony.am/en