An Evening of reflection: Remembering the Armenian Genocide in Berlin
Music, speeches, and remembrance at the Berlin Parliament
April 28th, 2025
On April 24, 2025, members of the Institute for Cultural Diplomacy (ICD) had the honor of attending the memorial ceremony for the victims of the Armenian Genocide at the Berlin House of Representatives. It was a deeply moving evening, where music and shared emotions created a powerful sense of unity among all present.
The ceremony opened with a deeply reflective musical program. The hall was filled with the solemn beauty of Johann Sebastian Bach’s "Ich ruf zu Dir, Herr Jesu Christ," followed by the poignant "Poem" by Eduard Mirzoyan. These pieces set a contemplative and emotional tone that stayed with us throughout the evening. Only after this musical opening did Jonathan Spangenberg, from the Central Council of Armenians in Germany, formally inaugurate the ceremony.
A video message from Cornelia Seibeld, President of the Berlin Parliament, was then shared. The musical interludes continued to weave an emotional narrative, with works by Komitas Vardapet such as "Garun a" ("It Is Spring") and "Hov Arek" ("A Gentle Breeze"), beautifully performed by pianist Karine Gilanyan and soprano Narine Yeghiyan.
Later in the evening, Cem Özdemir, Federal Minister for Food, Agriculture, and Education, delivered a powerful commemorative speech. Bishop Serovpé Isakhanyan, Primate of the Armenian Church in Germany, then concluded the ceremony with a moving prayer and words of remembrance. Standing there among people from diverse backgrounds but united by the same spirit of respect and memory was truly profound.
Attending this ceremony was a deeply humbling experience. It reminded us that memory is an active force, binding communities together across generations.
References:
- https://www.dakd.de/ https://www.dakd.de/
