Capital Cities’ Simonian to Serve as Panelist at ANCA Conference

GLENDALE, Calif.—The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) Western Region this week announced that renowned Los Angeles-based music producer Sebu Simonian will serve on the “Film & the Arts” panel at the much anticipated ANCA Grassroots Conference slated for Thanksgiving weekend.

“We are proud of the success Sebu has achieved and will continue to cheer him on as he advances his place in the music industry,” said Ara Khachatourian, the chairman of the ANCA Grassroots Committee. “We are also very excited about having Sebu on the ‘Arts & Film’ panel this year and are eager to hear his thoughts about activism through the arts.”

Simonian’s latest project, “Capital Cities,” released their debut album “In A Tidal Wave of Mystery” on Capitol Records / Lazy Hooks this year, with platinum selling lead single “Safe and Sound” climbing the charts worldwide and earning a Video Music Award. The band has toured North America, South America, Europe, and Asia, all the while hosting and participating in charity performances to promote awareness about the Armenian Genocide.

Born in Syria to Armenian parents, Simonian began studying piano and voice at a young age, and received a degree in music from California State University, Northridge. He formed his first band at the age of 15 playing mostly Pink Floyd covers. He began producing from his bedroom at the age of 16 and later from his music studio in Burbank. In the late 1990’s, he was an editorial assistant with the Asbarez English Section.

The successful ANCA Grassroots Conference will return on Thanksgiving Weekend, this time in the heart of Hollywood at Loews Hotel. The event bring together academics, artists, historians, legal experts, and political officials who will speak about the myriad aspects of the pursuit of Hay Taid.

The conference is open to the community, but requires registration. Register now by visiting itsmyseat.com/ancawr or by calling (818) 500-1918. To obtain updates on the conference, “Like” the ANCA Western Region Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ANCAWesternRegion or visit www.ancawr.org.