The Ninth Aram Khachaturian International Competition launched in Yerevan, Armenia on June 6, focusing on the cello. The competition this year celebrates the 110th anniversary of its namesake, Armenian composer Aram Khachaturian.

A gala concert and awards ceremony took place on June 14, during which first prize, worth $15,000, was awarded to Andrei Ionita. The competition is run jointly by the RA Ministry of Culture, 'Aram Khachaturian-competition' Cultural Foundation and Yerevan Komitas State Conservatory.

During the opening ceremony the State Youth Orchestra of Armenia, which has been the official orchestra of the competition since 2007, and cellist Gautier Capuçon performed.

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