Kissing Cousins. April, 2011, Southern California: cousins Berta Bilezikjian (left) and
Bethel Bilezikian Charkoudian (right) express their love for their cousin, famous oud player John Bilezikjian (center). All three are children of Armenians who survived the genocide and came to this country early in the 20th Century from Marash, Ottoman Empire.
Photo Credit: Helen (Mrs. John) Bilezikjian
Photo Credit: Helen (Mrs. John) Bilezikjian
John Bilezikjian, a musician famous for his compositions, performances and recordings of Middle Eastern oud music -- a master oud player -- passed away yesterday morning, January 19, 2015, in Los Angeles, California. May God rest his soul. Condolences and love.
John -- you are sorely missed.
John -- you are sorely missed.
I'm so sorry about your cousin
ReplyDeleteHe played at my nephews wedding in 2004 and we had a nice talk then
He was a gracious man and a great musician
What a wonderful picture! My condolences to all the family. My dad bought his first album many years ago and it came to me when my Mom died. I was fortunate to hear him play at Boston's Armenian Night at the Pops and then speak with him afterwards.
ReplyDeleteMy deepest sorrow from a dancer from Holland. Will bring his music back to live here. Love from Holland 2020
ReplyDeleteI was so sad to learn of John's passing. He played at my wedding, taught me Arabic words before i moved to Dubai, composed with Mikhail Kollander and the 2 of them were amazing musicians together. I loved his talent, his mischievousness and humor. I used to go to his concerts here in Santa Barbara.
ReplyDeleteHello to you all involved with the
ReplyDeleteinfamous oud player John.
I am his cousin & have not seen him
for many, many years.
Our parents are all related & from Aintab, Turkey...
any
From "Anonymous "
ReplyDeleteBarbara (Nizibian) Chalekian
(My artical above was cut off before it was completed!)
John was my cousin & our parents all came from Aintab, Turkey to the U.S.
We cousins all grew up together
as our parents got together often
for our Armenian food & fun!
I will NEVER forget those awesome
times!!
John was incredible!!! Proud to have been related.
Great Armenian families
Great Armenian LOVE!!