On 17 August 2024, a Gala Memorial Concert was presented by the Sydney Conservatorium of Music honouring the memory of Ara Vartoukian OAM, celebrating his legacy of kindness, generosity, and dedication to making a positive difference in the world of music.
Many of the amazing young pianists contributing their talents were recipients of past Theme and Variations Foundation awards. They performed in Ara’s honour and to demonstrate the ongoing existence of the Foundation, which has been such a crucial source of support for aspiring young concert pianists in Australia.
The students of Galstaun College performed a beautiful choral number, acknowledging Ara’s dedication and the vital contribution he made to the College and the Armenian community.
Monti’s ‘Csárdás’, a short piece Ara often played after he finished tuning a piano, was performed as a surprise item, arranged for 16 hands on two pianos by Sam Zhan.
At the conclusion of the evening Nyree, Tro and Haig were presented with a portrait of Ara painted by artist and musician Lisa Stewart.
Ara’s wish was always to continue the Foundation’s quest to help young pianists achieve their dreams and to give them every opportunity we can. It is our intention to continue this Foundation for many years to come.
