Hovsepian Choir
Sacred music of the Armenian Apostolic Church since 1992
About Our Choir
Founded in 1992, the Hovsepian Choir leads our congregation in the sacred music of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Our purpose is to teach, rehearse, and perform the hymns and melodies of the Divine Liturgy — including those specific to Sundays, vigils, Holy Tabernacles, Holy Weeks, and Resurrection Sundays — in accordance with the Armenian Apostolic Church liturgical calendar.
We are always eager to welcome new voices. If you have a love for sacred music and a desire to serve through song, we invite you to join us.
In Memoriam: Dn. Rupen Ozsogomonyan
The Hovsepian Choir owes much of its life and character to the late Deacon Rupen Ozsogomonyan, who served as Choir Master (Դպրապետ), director, and organist for over thirty years. A founding member of St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church, Dn. Rupen offered his musical and liturgical gifts in service to the Holy Altar and to the sacred music of the Divine Liturgy with quiet dedication and deep reverence.
Under his leadership, the choir participated in the regular worship life of the parish as well as in major liturgical milestones — including visitations of the Catholicos of All Armenians and the Patriarch of Constantinople, and the 25th Anniversary of the Consecration of St. Mary Church in 2017. He possessed a profound knowledge of the Armenian Church's liturgical life, having mastered not only the various forms of the Divine Liturgy but also the daily offices, the observances of the major feasts, and the sacramental rites that define our liturgical cycle.
In recognition of his decades of dedicated and selfless service to the Armenian Church, Dn. Rupen was awarded the St. Nerses Shnorhali Medal in 2014 — one of the highest honors bestowed by the Church upon those who have given exemplary service.
May the Lord grant him rest in the light of His eternal presence. Աստուած հոգին լուսաւորէ.
Our Organist: Ms. Angèle Nalbandian
The Hovsepian Choir is deeply grateful to have Ms. Angèle Nalbandian as our organist. Daughter of Armenian Apostolic priest Der Zenob Nalbandian, Angèle was raised within the rich liturgical and musical heritage of our Church, and she now offers those gifts in faithful service to our parish.
Following the passing of Dn. Rupen, Angèle stepped graciously into a leadership role, guiding the choir with warmth, skill, and a steady devotion to the sacred music that shapes our worship. Her presence at the organ each Sunday is a blessing to the congregation and to all who lift their voices in song.
Our Mission
Rehearse like you perform during services.
Officers & Leadership
- Chairman: Hirant Rakijian
- Vice Chairman: Dr. Arshavir Andonian
- Recording Secretary: Hirant Rakijian
- Assistant Secretary: Nazeli Saharyildizi
- Treasurer: Tamar Nahapetian
- Assistant Treasurer: Talia Saharyildizi
Advisors: Vahan Cetinelian, Karine Galustyan, Elisa Guirgis, Arsen Guleseryan, Avedis Gulezian, Talar Mastro, Terra Saharyildizi, Vartuhi Torikian, Annie Vas
Rehearsals & Services
The choir leads worship at every Sunday Badarak as well as at Tabernacle and Holy Week services throughout the liturgical year.
We hold biweekly rehearsals to prepare the music for upcoming services.
Events & Activities
- Sponsor one of the parish's annual Lenten Dinners each year
- Celebrate the combined Church and Choir anniversary together with the parish
- Provide annual activity and financial reports to the Parish Council
Want to learn more?
Reach out to the parish office or come visit us on a Sunday — we'd love to meet you.