New Paris Square Named After Influential Armenian-French Composer Garbis Aprikian

A new square in Paris has been named after the celebrated French-Armenian composer and conductor Garbis Aprikian, recognizing his lifelong devotion to music and culture. The official inauguration took place on October 15 in the 9th arrondissement, coinciding with the first anniversary of Aprikian’s passing.

Garbis Aprikian, founder and longtime director of the Sipan-Komitas Choir, is remembered as one of the most influential figures in the Armenian diaspora’s cultural life in France. For decades, he dedicated his art to bridging Armenian and French musical traditions, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire generations of musicians.

The ceremony gathered many public figures, officials, and members of the Armenian community in France. Those in attendance included Armenia’s Ambassador to France Armen Khachatryan, Deputy Mayor of Paris Laurence Patrice, Mayor of the 9th arrondissement Delphine Bürkli, and several other Paris City Council members. Members of the Aprikian family — his sons Goryoun and Ara Aprikian, and granddaughter Talin Aprikian — were also present, paying tribute to the life and legacy of their father and grandfather.

Other distinguished guests included Paris Deputy Mayors Arnaud Ngatcha and Anouch Toranian, Council member Alexis Govciyan, President of the Philharmonie de Paris Olivier Mantéi, and representatives from various Armenian organizations and cultural institutions.

In his remarks, Ambassador Armen Khachatryan expressed appreciation to Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo, the Paris City Council, and the administration of the 9th arrondissement “for their initiative in perpetuating Garbis Aprikian’s memory and strengthening Armenian-French friendship.”

The ambassador said that through his creative achievements and direction of the Sipan-Komitas Choir, Aprikian “played a vital role in promoting both Armenian and French musical heritage.” He added that the decision to inscribe Aprikian’s name in the heart of Paris “symbolizes the harmonious unity of Armenian and French cultures.”

The naming of the square serves not only as a tribute to Garbis Aprikian’s artistic contributions but also as a lasting reminder of the deep historical and cultural ties between Armenia and France. His work continues to echo across both nations, reflecting a shared devotion to culture, identity, and the power of music to bring people together.

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