I set out for the gardens today, with a side trip to GGA for a duduk purchase. Finding the S4 trolley in itself was an adventure. Since I had to cross a major intersection to reach the stop, I found myself navigating underground pathways in multiple directions to reach the proper exit (most not only unmarked but also sometimes disguised as storefronts). I finally reached the correct street corner . Next time, I will try a different route. I rewarded myself with my minty tan drink) while I waited for the trolley.
After hopping on the long-awaited S4, I discovered that it was going in the opposite direction! Best laid plans… not so well executed. Undaunted, I hopped off and ordered a taxi. After getting to know the driver a bit (no vitals required lately!), he asked me,”What does Canada have that Armenia does not?”. I was stumped.
Thank goodness I took a taxi. I would never have found GGA Professional Musical Instruments on my own. It is both a workshop and residence, without any signage whatsoever. My driver made a few inquiries locally to find the precise address. Once inside the nondescript metal doors, I was led into the gardens and studio of Master duduk makers Galvastyan, referred to online as the “gold standard “. This is a family operation, where two brothers and their uncle are all equally involved in the crafting of the duduks. I was offered a delicious Armenian coffee and peaches, had a short orientation to the duduk, and was given a reed to accompany the duduk that was soft enough for a beginner. Hooray; mission accomplished!
My return was less eventful. It was very hot and I decided to pass on the Botanical Gardens, especially since time was now running short.I caught the #20 bus direct to Republic Square but hopped off a little early due to the congestion. I planned to pick up some prepped food at Yerevan City, but happened upon the Blue Mosque and toured it instead . Built in 1764-65, it is an example of Iranian-style architecture, and the only one remaining of eight mosques in the city. The Soviet anti-religion campaigns were also a threat to this mosque, but a group of Armenian artists and intellectuals managed to rescue it. Post-Soviet collapse, it was renovated with the help of the Iranian government. Today, it is used as a multi-purpose venue.
The final leg of my day was the weekly forum at the AVC at 6:30 pm. Tonight’s talk was by American University of Yerevan Professor Vahram Ter-Matossian (expert in foreign and security policies of Turkey and the South Caucasus). Armenia’s future is a challenging subject.
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