The Louvre: The Department of Near Eastern Antiquities  

Date: March 16, 2023

The Louvre: The Department of Near Eastern Antiquities  

Musée du Louvre, Paris, France. 

The first ever museum collection of Assyrian artifacts began in 1847 with the Musée de Louvre in Paris. The first, and some of the most noteworthy, pieces from this collection were uncovered at Sargon II’s Palace at Dur-Sharrukin. The remains of this ancient palace reside in what is now modern-day Khorsabad, Iraq. The palace at Dur-Sharrukin began construction under the reign of Sargon II. The King had intended to establish a new Assyrian capital at Dur-Sharrukin as a way of asserting his authority. Dur-Sharrukin was on its way to becoming the largest city in the ancient world. However, upon his untimely death, Sargon’s son and heir, Sennacherib, moved the capital to Nineveh, leaving the palace at Dur-Sharrukin behind unfinished. After the fall of the Assyrian empire in the 7th century, the artifacts of this great nation were buried by both literal and metaphorical sands of time. The Bible, as well as select ancient Greek texts, remained the only literary recourses Western archeologists and explorers had to learn about ancient Mesopotamia up until the mid-19th century. Though, sources such as the tale of Ahiqar the Wise, Ahiqar Hakima, as well as other writings in Syriac or Aramaic kept the memory of the great nation alive in the Assyrian community. The rise of European interest in ancient objects, coupled with the political interests of Britian and France, initiated a series of excavations in the middle east conducted by these foreign governments. 

Paul-Émile Botta was a French Consular Agent in Mosul, who had been selected to lead the excavation due to his background as a naturalist, historian, and diplomat, as well as his ability to speak multiple languages. He initially began digging at Quyunjik, but was unsuccessful in unearthing any major discoveries. Based on advice from local citizens, Botta turned his attention to Khorsabad in hopes of discovering undisturbed artifacts. Compared to other Assyrian monuments, Dur-Sharrukin was buried fairly close to the surface, and within a week’s worth of digging, Botta’s team was successful in uncovering large sections of the palace. 

The Palace of Sargon II contained a number of groundbreaking discoveries. Botta and his team unearthed large gypsum alabaster slabs which featured bas-relief sculpture telling the story of King Sargon’s royal life and legacy. This included scenes of hunting and military campaigns, as well as depictions of Assyrian gods. These alabaster slabs lined the mud brick walls of the sprawling palace, which contained around two hundred rooms and courtyards. The doorways were flanked by Lamassu statues; the first of their kind to be discovered by archeologists.  

Given the significance of Botta’s discoveries, the French government supplied the team with further resources for excavation and documentation. This included sending artist Eugène Flandin, who illustrated the site and finds. Time was of the essence when it came to illustrating the artifacts, as being suddenly exposed to the desert elements and heat started to damage them. Soon after unearthing the objects, Botta began shipping them back to France by way of boats up the Tigris River. This process was fraught with difficulty. The sheer amount and size of the objects being transported overwhelmed the ships. Throughout the journey, the crews were attacked and seized by pirates, who managed to sink one of the ships. In an effort to make the transportation process easier, some controversial choices were made. This includes breaking artifacts into smaller pieces and then reassembling them onsite at the Louvre. By today’s standards, Botta’s transfer of antiquities can be seen as a lesson in “what not to do.” However, the challenges faced and mistakes made did help to inform later academics in developing standardized and regulated means by which valuable historical objects are acquired, handled, transported, and maintained. Given that this was the first ever major excavation in the Near East, they still had a lot to learn.  

After their treacherous journey, the objects arrived at the Musée de Louvre in February of 1847. On May 1st 1847, King Louis-Phillip inaugurated The Ninevite Museum. This was the first exhibition of Assyrian antiquities in the world, and there was a great deal of public interest in the collection. In the years to come, the collection continued to expand. Contributions were made by Ernest Renan in the 1860’s, and Ernest de Sarzec in the 1870’s. Sarzec discovery of Ancient Sumerian objects prompted the Ninevites Museum’s transition into The Department of Near Eastern Antiquities in 1881. At this time, Léon Heuzey was appointed head curator of the department. He was incredibly devoted to garnering recognition of and knowledge about the antiquities, and also worked as a professor in Near Eastern Antiquities. Today, The Department of Near Eastern Antiquities at the Musée de Louvre remains one of the most remarkable collections of ancient Assyrian artwork in the world. Assyrians have had their own history systematically obfuscated from them from centuries. This has been done both through the separation of the community from their native homeland, and through the destruction of historical artifacts. Though the process of the excavations of these artifacts was imperfect, the exhibitions provide modern Assyrians the ability to stand face to face with their own history during a time when that is becoming increasingly more difficult. Assyrians can also take pride in knowing how significant and awe inspiring their history is to the global community, who continue to flock to the Louvre to experience the wonders of The Department of Near Eastern Antiquities. After all, they are the decedents or the artisans and laborers who’s work now contributes to the prestige of this world rebound museum.  

Written by: Melanie Perkins

Published by: Brian Banyamin

Bibliography:  

“Early Excavations in Assyria.” Metmuseum.org, Aug. 2021, https://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/rdas/hd_rdas.htm. 

“The Opening of the Assyrian Museum at the Louvre.” Gouv.Fr, https://archeologie.culture.gouv.fr/khorsabad/en/opening-assyrian-museum-louvre. Accessed 16 Jan. 2023. 

“The Palace of Sargon II.” Le Louvre, https://www.louvre.fr/en/explore/the-palace/the-palace-of-sargon-ii. Accessed 16 Jan. 2023. 

Albrecht, Lea. “Louvre Shows Mideast Relics with Dubious Past.” Deutsche Welle, 23 Nov. 2016, https://www.dw.com/en/louvres-mesopotamia-exhibition-highlights-europes-spotted-past-with-ancient-art/a-36490045. 

Wikipedia contributors. “Dur-Sharrukin.” Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, 28 Dec. 2022, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Dur-Sharrukin&oldid=1129976094. 

Mar Benyamin Shimun XXI

Date: March 11, 2023

Mar Benyamin Shimun, Catholicos Patriarch XXI, was born in Qudchanis, Turkey in 1887. His mother, Asyat, was the daughter of a famous Assyrian chieftain, Qamber of Eeil, and his father, Eshai, was born of the patriarchal line of the Church of the East. Growing up, he received an education from a notable Assyrian scholar from the tribe of Tkhooma. During this time, he learned a great deal about politics and diplomacy.

On March 2, 1903, Mar Benyamin was ordained as a Metropolitan. However, after the death of his uncle, Mar Ruel Shimun, Catholicos Patriarch XX, on March 16, 1903, Mar Benyamin was elevated to the Patriarchal throne on March 30, 1903 at the age of 16. Observers noted that he quickly learned how to conduct himself as a mature leader despite his age, as he was aided by his sister, Surma Khanum.

Years after his consecration, World War I began and reverberated throughout the world and the Middle East. The conflicts between various regional powers place the Assyrian nation in a most difficult position, leading to much conflict and atrocities. With much difficulty, Mar Benyamin took it upon himself to lead the Assyrians of Hakkari out into the safety of Urmi, where they joined their brethren.

Also, he helped many Assyrians escape to Russia after having successful negotiations with Tsar Nicolas of Russia for Assyrian settlement in their residential areas. According to Braum and Winkler, Mar Benyamin accomplished “the transfer of 15,000 of his people into the Caucasus, where they founded a new homeland in the present-day states of Armenia and Georgia.” In 1917, Mar Benyamin was decorated by the Russians who wanted to show their appreciation to the Assyrians for helping them in their fight. In 1918, Mar Benyamin was assassinated by a Kurdish officer. He was 31 years old.

Mar Benyamin Shimun, Catholicos Patriarch XXI, embodies the true meaning of a hero. His bravery and courage helped many Assyrians find sanctuary in a very turbulent time in history, and for that, we honor him every year.

Published by: Brian Banyamin

Written by: Sarah Gawo

Bibliography

Baum, William, and Dietmar Winkler. The Church of the East: A Concise History. Routledge, 2003.

“He Lived and Died For His Beloved Assyrian Church & Nation.” Assyrian Enterprise, http://www.assyrianenterprise.com/MiscAnnounc/M.Benyamin/MBenyamin.html.

Shoumanov, Vasili V. The Assyrian Martyr: Mar Benjamin Shimun, Patriarch of the Church of the East. Center for the Assyrian Genocide Studies, 2008.

Shumanov, Vasily. “The Patriarch Mar Binyamin Shimmun a Martyr of the Assyrian Nation & The Church of the East.” Zinda, 15 Mar. 2004, http://www.zindamagazine.com/html/archives/2004/3.15.04/.

SyriacPress. “Today in History: East Syriac Patriarch Mar Shimun Binyamin Murdered by Kurdish Chieftain Simko Agha.” SyriacPress, 3 Mar. 2022, https://syriacpress.com/blog/2022/03/03/today-in-history-east-syriac-patriarch-mar-shimu n-binyamin-murdered-by-kurdish-chieftain-simko-agha/.

Werda, Joel E. “A Short Biography of Mar Benyamin Shimun XXI.” Nineveh, 1981.

Agha Petros

Date: February 23, 2023

Petros Elia was born in Baz, Hakkari in April 1880, during the reign of the Ottoman empire. He went to school in Hakkari, then later traveled to Urmia, Iran, where he received a Catholic missionary education.

After he finished school, he began teaching in his hometown of Baz. Then, he became an assistant in the Ottoman Empire, and later an ambassador in Iran for the Ottoman consulate, as a result of his fluency in various languages. According to Solomon Solomon, “While serving in his new position, he used his influence to help the Christian population of the area to a degree that the Pope sent him a medal as a token of gratitude.”

When World War I began, Petros Elia resigned from his job to join the war effort. Following Russia’s invasion of Iran, Petros Elia was appointed as a general during World War I and started being referred to as Agha Petros. At this time, the Allies (Great Britain, France, Russia, etc.) gave him command over the left-wing of the Assyrian army.

Throughout the war, Agha Petros led successful campaigns against the Ottomans and Kurds, most notably, the Battle of Souldouze. At Souldouze, Agha Petros beat back the Ottoman force against greater odds. Moreover, Agha Petros defeated the Ottomans in Sauj Bulak and drove them out, as well as the Ottoman and Kurdish forces in Mosul. All things considered, it’s accomplishments, such as these, which earned him the title of being Assyria’s greatest military hero.

In his later years, he participated in the 1923 Lausanne Conference in an attempt to resettle Assyrians. Years later, he moved to France, where he passed away in February, 1932 at the age of 52.

Published by: Brian Banyamin

Written by: Sarah Gawo

Bibliography

“Agha Petros.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 20 Nov. 2022,
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agha_Petros#:~:text=Petros%20also%20defeated%20the%
20Ottomans,quite%20a%20few%20of%20them.
Donef, Racho. 1923: Agha Petros and the Lausanne Telegraphs, 29 Sept. 2003,
http://www.atour.com/history/1900/20030929a.html.
Naayem, Joseph. Shall This Nation Die? Lulu Press, 2005.
Shihale, Joe. “Genaral Agha Patrus .” Agha Putrus,
https://www.betnahrain.net/Biographies/agha.htm.
Solomon, Solomon S. Prominent Assyrians. [Publisher Not Identified], 1991.

Abee Sargis

Date: February 17, 2023

Abee Sargis was born in Iraq and obtained a degree in economy and business administration from the University of Baghdad. He also earned a diploma in acting and directing. Sargis began his acting career by performing in plays written in Assyrian and Arabic at his local church and in school plays. He later became a radio and television speaker, while living in Baghdad. Sargis’s breakthrough in acting came when he participated in the Assyrian Cultural Club and starred in his first international drama, “Doctor Against His Will.” Sargis stated that his play “Betan Khata” has gained significant popularity and has been performed in various locations including Chicago, California, Canada, and Australia. In 1986, Sargis relocated to Chicago, where he continued his acting career and took part in various plays, including “Mother’s Cry.” He subsequently began directing and acting in films, and has appeared in five movies to date: “Akh Min Khimyani,” “Cousins,” “Basimtet Reesha,” “The Cross of Mary,” and “Journey of Eternity.” During a conversation I had with Sargis, he mentioned having upcoming projects in the works.

Sargis’ latest film, “Journey of Eternity,” as described on IMDb, focuses on the story of Esho, a school teacher played by Abee Sargis, and his challenging experiences. He was falsely accused of National Movements. Additionally, Esho witnessed the imprisonment of many Assyrians and the execution of three of them. Following his release, Esho embarks on a journey to honor the memory of the slain activists. During his journey, Esho encounters an advocate from the United Nations Human Rights Organization, an American journalist who supports highlighting the ongoing oppression in the Middle East.

The Assyrian Cultural Foundation extends our appreciation and honor to Abee Sargis, the film’s lead actor, for his contribution to the project. Additionally, the Foundation would like to express gratitude to all those who offered their support for Abee Sargis and acted on behalf of the Foundation.

Published by: Brian Banyamin

Written by Sarah Gawo

Bibliography

“Journey of Eternity.” IMDb, IMDb.com, https://www.imdb.com/title/tt12396978/plotsummary/?ref_=tt_ov_pl.

What Instrument Would My Child Enjoy?

Date: February 16, 2023

What Instrument Would My Child Enjoy?

On paper, the prospect of signing a child up for music classes is exciting. However, when parents finally get down to it, they often pause. How do they know what instrument will work best for their child? What if they choose an instrument their child hates, which sours their love for music?

It can be tricky to choose an instrument for your child. Consider these key factors before you make a decision.

Practical factors about your child

Before you make any major decision, you’ll want to think about your child’s age and physicality. Younger children can’t manage too complex of instruments and may struggle with focusing. It may be better to wait to sign your child up for complex instruments like violin and French horn until your child is a little older.

Their sizes can make handling some instruments difficult as well. Too heavy or too tall of instruments may not be feasible for smaller children. Children with short fingers might not do as well with the piano as those with long fingers. There are some instruments that come in smaller sizes for children, however, so this may work.

Consider their personality

Not all personality types are suited for all instruments. Before you rent any instruments, think about the type of person your child is. Some children may not want to dedicate hours a day mastering their instrument. Others may loathe classical music, meaning a more “mainstream” instrument (such as guitar or drums) would be better for them. Extraversion versus introversion may play a part too.

Below are some instruments that compliment certain personality types best. Of course, this list is not the end-all-be-all. It’s possible your child may enjoy one of these instruments no matter their personality type. Instead, think of this as a guide.

Piano

While the piano is a great instrument for all children to start on, those who experience the most success are often quieter and more conscientious. Piano is a solitary instrument, so those who are more sociable may be displeased with their secluded lessons.

Percussion

On the opposite end of the spectrum, percussion is fantastic for children with energy to dispel. Whether playing a drum set or in charge of the percussion section in an orchestra, it gives children the opportunity to engage with several different instruments at once. It also gives them the opportunity to interact with an ensemble.

String instruments

String instruments encompass violin, viola, cello, and double bass. While each might fit children for different reasons, on the whole, they are best for those who are disciplined. Those who play violin should be comfortable being in the limelight, while those who play the viola, cello, and double bass should want to be a part of a group.

However, when playing any string instruments, children must go through the process of developing callouses on their fingers. Many children may not want to deal with the struggle that comes with that.

Woodwinds

Woodwind instruments encompass a wide variety of instruments, from flute, to clarinet, to bassoon, and many in between. The child who is drawn to the flute may be on the quieter side, but they still enjoy being a part of a group that leads the melody. It is a softer instrument that may not appeal to a child who wants more attention.

The clarinet, on the other hand, is great for children who are natural leaders, and this is similarly the case for a child that plays the bassoon.

Brass instruments

For the most part, brass instruments (such as a trumpet, French horn, tuba, and trombone) are among the loudest instruments in an orchestra. Children have to be comfortable with playing an instrument that catches the attention of others—especially those who play the trumpet, which is often a lead instrument. The trombone and French horn are better for children who prefer socializing in smaller groups, but still want to be heard.

Follow their lead

With all of the above factors taken into consideration, the final step should be to ask your child what it is they are interested in. Offer them a few options that you think would be best based on your research, and allow them to choose. This way, they’re involved in their learning from the beginning, which will excite them.

Written by: Cassandra Ledger

Assyrian Wedding Traditions

Date: February 13, 2023

Assyrian weddings include various traditions that have been exercised for centuries. As of today, Assyrian wedding traditions are boiled down to at least 7 main practices. What are these practices and how are they used today?

Before the wedding, there must be a pre-engagement gathering called a Mashmeta, which translates to “the Hearing / the proposal”. Essentially, the suitor’s family will visit the parents of the woman, and the suitor’s parents will ask for their son to be married to their daughter. The son does not accompany his family during this, and the woman is supposed to be in her room secluded, while the negotiation is happening. If the woman’s family accepts, they will start picking a day for their engagement party. However, before they make any arrangements, the woman’s family will go to her bedroom and tell her about the outcome. If she accepts the outcome, the woman’s father will inform the man’s family to prepare for an official engagement.

Khaybatat Khatana / Bathing of the groom, his relatives and groomsmen will meet at his home to trim his hair, shave his face, and wash his body. During this event, a group of female singers, known as barbiyeh, will sing a special song titled lilyaneh for the groom. In some instances, a younger relative will take a shower before the groom. This tradition is meant to physically and spiritually cleanse the groom in preparation for his wedding.

Barbiyeh will sing and make kileche to take and give to the attendees at the church the day of the wedding ceremony.
Meanwhile, the groom’s family will come to the bride’s house to celebrate. During this event, the groom’s family sing and dance to the music of the zurna (zorna) and bass drum (dawola). Eventually, the groom’s family will request that the bride come with them to church.

Following this, relatives of the bride will ask for money from the groom’s family. In other words, the bride’s family is demanding a dowry. As the negotiation is occurring, the doors of the bride’s home are shut and guarded by her uncle. When the groom’s family pays the exit fee, the bride is allowed to leave with the groom’s family at last.

As the newlyweds make their entrance into the banquet hall of their reception, the bride dances with a decorated handkerchief, known as the yalekhta, and the groom dances with a decorated cane, known as the kopala. Concurrently, the guests twirl their decorated handkerchiefs, and ululate in celebration. Afterwards, the guests will gather in the center of the banquet hall and perform Assyrian folk dances. Some relatives will sit on the bride’s and groom’s chair and request that they must be paid or get invited on an outing. When this request is accepted, they will get up and let the groom and bride sit down.

Altogether, these traditions of an Assyrian wedding preserve Assyrian culture and heritage. It’s traditions, such as these, that shape Assyrian identity.

Published by: Brian Banyamin

Written by: Sarah Gawo

New Years Resolutions

Date: January 5, 2023

Helping Your Child with their Learning Goals this New Year

The New Year inspires individuals of all ages to rethink their wants and set new goals. Even children benefit from New Year resolutions, as they encourage them to work on their time management and discipline.

If your child isn’t sure what they would pick for their resolution, a great place to start is with a learning goal. After winter break, the pause in learning can lead to problems with retaining information. There is hardly a better way to get back into the swing of things than with a goal to invigorate them.

How do I help my child set their learning goal?

A great thing to remember when setting resolutions for your child (and even yourself) is the SMART acronym. First and foremost, your child must identify what it is they want to work on in school. Upon naming that broader goal, help them break it into more sizeable chunks with SMART.

• Specific- “Getting better at math” is too vague of a goal to feasibly achieve. “Getting better at multiplication tables,” is better, but “Mastering the first half of my multiplication tables” is specific enough that your child should know exactly where they need to start.
• Measurable- In the same example as above, it’s difficult for your child to say when they’ve succeeded at their goal of “getting better at math.” However, there are clear steps to take to master the first half of their multiplication tables—succeed at the ones, then the twos, and so forth.

Measurable- In the same example as above, it’s difficult for your child to say when they’ve succeeded at their goal of “getting better at math.” However, there are clear steps to take to master the first half of their multiplication tables—succeed at the ones, then the twos, and so forth.

Attainable- While you want to encourage your child to reach for the stars, goals that are too high usually fail. Your child might feel bad about themselves if they set a goal that is too lofty, which can lead to even more problems with their learning.

Results-oriented- Your child’s resolution should also include steps of how they’ll achieve their goals. This might mean studying for half an hour after school every day or working with a tutor two times a week.

Time-bound- It’s easy for goals to fall to the wayside if there isn’t a time frame for completion. Encourage your child to select a date to complete their resolution by. This could be mastering the first half of their multiplication tables by the end of the school year.

A tutor can help them achieve their learning goals

If your student needs additional support achieving their learning goals, consider hiring a tutor. The Assyrian Cultural Foundation offers free math and English tutoring to Assyrian students. It is our mission to provide students the tools they need to not only overcome their current problems but to set their path for future success.

To learn more about our tutoring program, call us at 224-935-2366 or email  stella.sweiss@acf-us.org.

Emmanuel Baba Dawud “Ammo Baba”

Date: November 11, 2022

Ammo Baba, Iraq’s “First Prince of Football”

There are few Assyrian soccer players (or footballers, as they’re better known on the other side of the Atlantic ocean) more loved than Emmanuel Baba Dawud, or Ammo Baba.

Born in Baghdad, Iraq in 1934, Baba’s prowess for the sport was made clear at the young age of 16. Iraqi schoolboys’ coach, Ismail Mohammed, discovered Baba while playing for the Liwa Al-Dulaim school province team. He’d come to know the sport by watching British soldiers playing the game, and had an instinctual pull to the game.

With the encouragement of Mohammed, Ammo Baba moved to the Royal Air Force (RAF) Employees’ Club, where he played for four years. His career exploded, however, when he made his senior debut during the International Military Sports Council qualifier in 1955. His career took on an international scope when he scored the team’s first goal against Morocco in 1957.

Upon sustaining an injury in 1958, Iraq’s King Faisal II sent him to London for treatment. During that time, he was scouted by a number of English clubs—including Liverpool, Chelsea, and Celtic. However, Iraq was experiencing new waves of political unrest, and with the safety of his family in mind, he returned home.

After nearly 20 years of playing, Baba’s career ended in 1970, but his career was far from over. Baba coached a number of Iraqi teams, even going as far as to coach three Olympic teams.

Baba’s entire soccer career was colored by the politics of the time. In the 1960s, political parties were starting to worm their way even into sports. He refused to let his face be used for political gain, even when it meant punishment for him. Throughout his entire career, he stood up for his players, as well as his people.

For many Iraqi citizens, Baba was a pure representation of the people. Despite the hardships, his passion for the sport never died. In the later years of his life, he founded a soccer school for underprivileged children—many of whom have grown to be professional soccer players. Following his death in 2009, Al-Rusafa Stadium was renamed to Ammo Baba Stadium in honor of his work.

Babba was a bright spot for a country that desperately needed one. His impression will be felt on the world of soccer for decades to come.

Published by: Brian Banyamin

Written by: Cassy Ledger 

“Ammo Baba.” Goalden Times, http://www.goaldentimes.org/tag/ammo-baba/.
Wikimedia Foundation. (2022, August 17). Ammo Baba. Wikipedia. Retrieved September 21, 2022, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ammo_Baba

Should Young Children Learn Music Theory?

Date: October 14, 2022

Should Young Children Learn Music Theory?

You may have heard about “music theory” but aren’t sure what it implies. Music theory is the study of the methods and concepts musicians use when creating music. In hearing this, you may think there isn’t much of a reason for your child to learn about it quite yet. However, that couldn’t be further from the case.

Music theory examines important musical qualities such as tone, pitch, rhythm, tempo, and more—all of which your child needs to understand to find the most success in their musical practice. While helping your young child learn about these concepts may seem daunting, there are clear pros to doing so.

A solid musical foundation at a young age

Children’s brains are like little sponges. The younger they are, the more quickly they’ll pick up a concept. This is why teaching children a second language at a young age is often stressed: it’s easier for them to learn.

Similarly, if you teach your child music theory concepts at a young age, it will shape their entire musical journey. They are more likely to learn more quickly and even develop a stronger interest in music as a whole. Basic concepts can be taught to children as young as three years old through fun activities. When children reach about nine years old, they are ready for more advanced concepts.

Children better understand how music works

When children have a solid musical foundation at a young age, they also have a better understanding of how a piece of music works as a whole. For example, when a child knows what key a piece of music is in, they can anticipate the notes and intervals that will be used throughout.  This speeds up the learning process.

In an ensemble setting, music theory will help them understand where their instrument fits. This is especially important when your child has to learn the harmonies of a piece instead of the melody.

Help them learn independently

When children can’t properly read music, the only way to learn is by ear and memorization. This is an option, however, it requires your child to listen to a piece of music again and again until they can figure it out. This limits them to learning music that has already been recorded or only learning when someone is sitting nearby to play it first.

In understanding music theory, your child will be able to look at a piece of music they’ve never learned before and start reading—much like reading a new book. It will also make it easier for your child to pick up a new instrument as they please.

Learn about music theory with a professional tutor

If you never practiced music, the thought of teaching theory to your child may seem like an impossible feat. Thankfully, you don’t have to shoulder it on your own. At the Assyrian Cultural Foundation, we offer music lessons with qualified tutors in a broad range of instruments through our Nebu J. Issabey Music Program.

Dr. Robert Paulissian

Date: October 11, 2022

Dr. Robert Paulissian was born on March 8, 1935 to Rabee Babajan and Mrs. Asnat Paulissian. During his youth, he accomplished many different feats. He helped establish the Shooshan School in Tehran in 1954 while he was still in school. He also served as president of the National Progressive Youth Organization of Assyrian youth called “Shooshada Oomtanaya” from 1956 to 1963.

In 1957, while studying at the University of Tehran, Dr. Paulissian helped organize the Assyrian Charity Clinic which aided sick and ill Assyrians alike. He was also assigned to serve in Hamadan as a missionary physician at the Christian Hospital of Hamadan. During his time in Hamadan, he also taught some Assyrian classes in the church school.

In 1966-1969, he was assigned as a professor at the University of Chicago. Concurrently, he also was the editor-in-chief of the Journal of Assyrian Academic Studies. Lastly, he helped facilitate and direct the Assyrian School, which became a subdivision of the ANCI, at Northeastern University.

Dr. Paulissian has been involved in a multitude of initiatives and organizations. He worked tirelessly to help his people whether this was by treating their wounds/ailments or helping them learn Assyrian. Dr. Paulissian has been a great benefit for the Assyrian community and we thank him for his service.

Published by: Brian Banyamin

Written by: Nino Aishou

Bibliography

Solomon, S. (1991). Dr. Robert Paulissian, M.D. In Prominent Assyrians (pp. 53–54). essay.

Solomon, S. (2010). Dr. Robert Paulissian, M.D. In The Indestructible Assyrians (p. 184). essay, Lulu Press.