The Naghash Ensemble's
Newly Written Christmas Oratorio
A New Armenian Christmas Oratorio
In December 2025, The Naghash Ensemble will present a new Christmas Oratorio composed by John Hodian. This evening-length work draws inspiration from both medieval and modern sacred Armenian poetry, celebrating the country’s rich Christian heritage. Hodian’s intriguing new music revives these timeless texts and casts the spirit of Armenian Christmas in a new light.
Music by John Hodian, Libretto by Vahram Martirosyan
With poems of Movses Khorenatsi (5th century), Sahakdukht (8th century), Catholicos Grigor III Pahlavuni (12th century), Komitas (20th century), and Vahram Martirosyan
Performed by The Naghash Ensemble
Hasmik Baghdasaryan (soprano), Tatevik Movsesyan (soprano), Shahane Zalyan (contralto), Harutyun Chkolyan (duduk, shvi), Aram Nikoghosyan (oud),
Tigran Hovhannisyan (dhol, dumbek, daf), John Hodian (piano)
“Full of hope and solace” — Shoghakat TV
“A unique hybrid of world music and contemporary classical music.” — NAI
“Sublime music between pride and beauty,
sorrow and hope” — Hamburger Abendblatt
“An absolute new discovery” — BR Klassik
Rehearsal recordings – a work in progress
Although there are no final recordings of this project, which is still in development, you can listen to the following excerpts created during the rehearsal process:
“The Voice of the Father,” based on poetry by YYY, with new music by John Hodian.
“Holy Birth,” based on poetry by YYY, with new music by John Hodian.
“The Great and Magnificent,” based on poetry by YYY, with new music by John Hodian.
“Hallelujah!” with new music by John Hodian.
The Naghash Ensemble will be on tour in Europe in December 2025.
For booking requests, please contact The Naghash Ensemble's manager:
Wiebke Zollmann
+49 391 5086 4062
+1 845 217 4306
