The world of classical music is in shock as Sergey Smbatyan, Principal Conductor of the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO), has been arrested in Armenia on charges of engaging in a massive fraud against the state. Along with his father, former Armenian ambassador to Israel Armen Smbatyan, Sergey Smbatyan stands accused of defrauding the state for around €2.3 million. The allegations have raised questions about Smbatyan’s conduct and his position as Principal Conductor of the MPO.
Sergey Smbatyan Arrested
In response to the news of Sergey Smbatyan’s arrest and the allegations against him, the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra has taken immediate action. Acting CEO Christopher Muscat announced the orchestra’s decision to suspend its working relationship with Maestro Smbatyan without prejudice or taking a position on the case’s merits. The suspension casts doubt on his future as the Principal Conductor of the prestigious orchestra.
The Alleged Fraud and Investigation Details
According to Armenian news reports, the case against Sergey Smbatyan has been under investigation for years and centers around a project proposed by a company allegedly owned by the Smbatyan family, Sochocenter. The company proposed a ‘Book World’ exhibition to commemorate Armenia’s 500th anniversary of printing and Yerevan’s title as World Book Capital in 2012. The company was reportedly given a valuable plot of land in Yerevan for the project.
However, prosecutors allege that instead of developing the ‘Book World’ exhibition, Sochocenter started constructing a 17-storey business center on the site, raising suspicions and leading to the fraud charges. It is further alleged that Sergey Smbatyan’s father, Armen Smbatyan, used a relative’s name to establish the company, hiding his son’s involvement.
Involvement of Former Culture Minister Hasmik Poghosyan
The investigation has also led to allegations against former culture minister Hasmik Poghosyan. Prosecutors reportedly claim that she was aware that the proposed project was not educational and involved a non-educational multi-functional building. However, she did not oppose the machinations, and the government eventually approved the project, leading to alleged damages to the state amounting to nearly €2.3 million.
Ongoing Investigation and Implications
As the investigation unfolds, the musical community awaits further developments and an official statement from Armenian authorities. The allegations have garnered significant attention, with Smbatyan’s reputation as a conductor and musician potentially at stake. The Malta Philharmonic Orchestra’s suspension of its working relationship with the conductor reflects the seriousness of the situation and the need for a thorough examination of the facts.
Impact on Sergey Smbatyan’s Career and Appointments
Sergey Smbatyan, known for his roles as the Principal Conductor of the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra and the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra, now faces uncertainty in his career. His appointment at the MPO, which took effect on January 1, 2022, has come under scrutiny, and the allegations against him could potentially affect his future in the world of classical music. Furthermore, his appointment as an Armenian National Ambassador of UNICEF, which took place last May, has been called into question.
The arrest and allegations against Sergey Smbatyan, the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra’s Principal Conductor, have sent shockwaves through the classical music community. As the investigation unfolds, the musical world awaits further developments and decisions regarding Smbatyan’s career and the future of his prominent roles in the world of orchestral conducting. The case also serves as a stark reminder of the importance of integrity and accountability within the classical music industry and beyond.