Macron leads Aznavour sing-along during Armenia visit
Emmanuel Macron surprised guests in Yerevan by performing a classic French chanson at a state dinner, highlighting cultural ties between France and Armenia.
French President Emmanuel Macron struck a musical note during his state visit to Armenia, leading a sing-along of a classic chanson at an official dinner in the capital, Yerevan.
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Seated at the piano, Macron performed La Bohème, the iconic 1965 hit by Charles Aznavour, a figure celebrated in both France and Armenia for his cultural legacy and roots.
The French leader was joined by Armenian President Vahagn Khatchatourian and Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, who reportedly took part in the performance, adding drums to the impromptu concert.
Aznavour, who died in 2018 aged 94, was born in France to Armenian parents and long symbolised the close cultural ties between the two nations.
His music provided a fitting backdrop to the evening, described by attendees as a moment of friendship through song.
The performance continued with Khatchatourian playing Les Feuilles Mortes on the piano, another French classic.
Macron’s musical interlude comes amid a broader diplomatic visit, as Armenia looks to strengthen ties with Europe.
France is home to one of the world’s largest Armenian diasporas, further underlining the historic connection between the two countries.