World-Class Vocalist Nadia Weinberg Performs Medley Of International Songs At AHI-Sponsored Concert

WASHINGTON, DC -- On March 1, 2002, the American Hellenic Institute (AHI) sponsored the kick-off leg of a North American concert tour featuring highly-acclaimed vocal soloist Nadia Weinberg and the soloists of the Symphony Orchestra of Athens. The concert, which took place at the National Geographic Society's Grosvenor Auditorium, marked the first in a series of gala events accenting the AHI's Hellenic Heritage and National Public Service Awards and Weekend Celebration. Showcased were a medley of well-known international ballads performed in an array of languages, including Greek, French, Italian, Spanish, Hebrew and English.

Opening remarks were delivered by AHI Executive Director Nick Larigakis. The audience and performers were also given a warm welcome by U.S. Senator Paul S. Sarbanes (D-MD). Providing a brief preview of the entertainment, the Senator noted that:

"We're in for an exciting evening. I've heard Nadia Weinberg before, so I can tell you -- for those who have not -- you're in for a real treat. And we're delighted that the Soloists of the Symphony Orchestra of Athens are here with us this evening. We welcome all of them and are very pleased that they are going to be performing not only here, but then across the country. I want to commend the American Hellenic Institutefor this program. I think it's a terrific idea."

Performing in front of a capacity crowd, Ms. Weinberg's repertoire was highlighted by an anthology of songs from the renowned Greek composers Manos Hatzidakis and Mikis Theodorakis, as well as ballads such as "Don't Cry for Me Argentina," "Amazing Grace" -- dedicated to the victims of September 11, and "La Vie en Rose," to name a few. Ms. Weinberg and company received a standing ovation from the audience for their outstanding performance. 

The City of Athens, Greece, for the sixth year in a row has sent the soloists from its symphony orchestra and the distinguished artist Nadia Weinberg on this tour of cities with large Greek populations. The mission: to bring a message of culture and solidarity to the communities visited. This year's March 2002 tour includes Washington, Dallas, Houston, Fresno, Jackson, Boston and Toronto.

The Soloists of the Symphony Orchestra of Athens are a critically acclaimed ensemble, consisting of the leading soloists and concert artists of Greece. With a broad international repertoire of classical and modern music, the orchestra ideally complements Ms. Weinberg's style. 

Ms. Weinberg, who is noted for her engaging performances, has received numerous honors for her talent, including the most recent AHI Hellenic Heritage Achievement Award, bestowed just this past weekend on March 2, 2002 during the organization's gala dinner and weekend celebration.

Special thanks goes to AHI members and friends James Lagos, Dean Metropoulos, James Pedas, Theodore Pedas, Gene Rossides, Effi Weinberg, and Stephen G. Yeonas for their support in helping to sponsor the concert. 

For additional information, including program information and photographs of the event, please contact Chrysoula Economopoulos at (202) 785-8430 or atinfo@ahiworld.org. For general information on the work of the American Hellenic Institute, please view our Web site at https://www.ahiworld.org.