The Naghash Ensemble – Russell Hill Rogers Musical Evenings

The Naghash Ensemble brings together Armenia’s finest conservatory-trained musicians, united by a deep reverence for the country’s folk and spiritual traditions. At the heart of the ensemble is the extraordinary voice of Hasmik Baghdasaryan, steeped in medieval Armenian spiritual music. Their repertoire sets the timeless 15th-century poetry of Mkrtich Naghash, whose verses on exile and belonging resonate with striking urgency today. Venue Schedule 5:30 PM Check-in & Happy Hour 6:15 PM Doors 7 PM Concert ABOUT THE ARTISTS: Written by Armenian-American composer John Hodian and based on sacred texts by the medieval Armenian mystic poet and priest Mkrtich Naghash, The Naghash Ensemble’s music combines the earthy spirituality of Armenian folk song, new classical music, contemporary post-minimalism, and the energy of jazz and rock. Hailed as “the sound of ancient Armenia reinvented for the 21st century” by visionary Armenian composer Tigran Mansurian, the ensemble’s “Songs of Exile” is a meditation on man’s relationship to God from the perspective of a monk forced to live in exile for many years. “Part folk music, part classical, and profoundly moving. Unmistakably Armenian, but out of this world” – Armenisch-Deutsche Korrespondenz Featuring some of Armenia’s finest musicians and singers, The Naghash Ensemble has been touring to accolades throughout Europe for the past ten years. Their 2014 recording, “Songs of Exile,” is the first of a three-volume set. The second disc, “Songs of Exile, Volume II: Credos & Convictions,” appeared in 2016. The third and final volume, “Songs of Exile: Lamentations & Benedictions,” was released in the fall of 2019, followed by a live-performance disc in 2021. Their studio recording, “Songs of Wisdom,” is a collection of new works based on texts by the 13th-century Armenian poet Kostandin Erznkaci, released in 2025. On the heels of their highly successful US tours in 2023 and 2025 (including performances at Carnegie Hall in New York, Strathmore in Washington, D.C., and SFJAZZ in San Francisco), The Naghash Ensemble is thrilled to return to North America in 2026. “An enchanting elixir of sounds based on new Armenian folk and centuries-old poetry” – KEXP “A moment of grace and meditation” – Rolling Stone Artist Website Bio: https://www.naghashensemble.com/about Event Sponsored by Dr. Crystale & Brett Cruz SPONSOR OF ARTISTIC FEES PARTNERS SPONSOR OF ARTISTIC FEES Tickets Tickets are required to enter the concert, but they are free! Seating is first-come-first-served. Tickets are available through each event on our event calendar or on Eventbrite. Check-in To help our staff and volunteers, please have your ticket ready when you get there. Staff and volunteers will be ready to scan the QR code located on your ticket (print, email, or app). Door Opening Door opening times for Musical Evenings events will occur at 6:15 PM, unless otherwise stated per event. Health & Safety Statement Musical Bridges Around the World will follow the most up-to-date safety guidelines for fine arts performance halls per the State of Texas, as well as any other measures necessary for the ensured safety of its attendees. It is within MBAW and the venue’s right and discretion as private entities to enact these safety protocols for its attendees. Lost Ticket/Refund Policy An attendant at the door can help you register and get in quickly and easily. If you have registered but have forgotten the ticket, an attendant can pull up your name and check you in manually. If you cannot attend, we ask that you cancel your free ticket order. This helps our ticket management process and eases the check-in process for staff/volunteers and guests on the day of. Photography & Video No flash photography or full-frame cameras unless given a press pass. We love for you to capture and share your experience, but we do ask that you be conscientious of others and the artists during the performance so as not to disrupt the event. Seating Seating is first-come-first-served, apart from any clearly marked reserved or VIP seating. Silence Your Phone Please silence phones/devices during the performance. Will Call Paper tickets are not available unless otherwise arranged, as all tickets run through the Eventbrite system. If you wish to print out your Eventbrite tickets for check-in, you may do so, but do not expect to be able to pick up physical tickets at a box office. Any other questions? Contact us. For all information regarding Stable Hall parking, accessibility, alcohol consumption, animals, bags/coats, prohibited items, and more, visit: https://www.stablehall.com/venue/faqs