Category Archives: Armenian
The Great Duduk Master Has Passed
The entire world music community has lost a true living legend, Armenian duduk master Djivan Gasparyan has died at the age of 92. The duduk is exclusively and internationally known as the instrument of Armenia. Made out of apricot wood with … Continue reading
Sweet Partridge; Performing with my daughter
We performed together for the first time a few days ago. My daughter and I played an Armenian folk song and I wanted to share the experience with you. My twelve-year old daughter, Aline is in the 6th grade and … Continue reading
The Genocide defines who I am as an Armenian
Those that follow my articles know that the focus has always been on arts and culture. I don’t debate politics or engage in those thoughts, unless it is about my ethnic background, being an Armenian. To me, that’s a different … Continue reading
Guy Chookoorian, Iconic Armenian Musician and Entertainer (1923 – 2021)
Unique. Pioneer. When I think of the Armenian icon Guy Chookoorian, I immediately think of these words which describe this Armenian singer, musician and actor. Sadly, he passed away on January 31st at the age of 97. “He had an … Continue reading
Our Home to Artsakh – Virtual Concert Fundraiser, March 25
On September 27, 2020, Armenians in Artsakh were attacked by Azerbaijani military forces. With the support of Turkey which provided weaponry and mercenary soldiers, Azerbaijan ignored international appeals to stop the aggression and to conduct peaceful negotiations. After Azerbaijan violated … Continue reading
Songs of Solomon, Armenia’s Entry for Academy Awards
“The boy would grow up to be known as Komitas. He would rise above his humble beginnings to eventually be known as the savior of Armenian music” Recently I had the opportunity to screen Armenia’s official entry for the upcoming … Continue reading
Artsakh-Armenia Relief Concert on Dec. 12th
Over the past several months we have experienced many groups throughout the diaspora helping both raise awareness and funds due to the war in Artsakh. These groups have been innovative in putting together products or offering their talents to help … Continue reading
How I Wish To Remember Artsakh
Personal Note: This was a difficult story to write for several reasons. Initially, I wanted to be able to express my thoughts about Artsakh and the the war against the Armenians in this region – struggling to find the right … Continue reading
Performance of a lifetime during a pandemic
It becomes an understatement and perhaps overused phrase to say that 2020 has been a tumultuous year. As a global pandemic entered our lives, we each experienced different strengths and weaknesses as we managed to adjust to even simple daily … Continue reading
Ara Dinkjian with The Secret Trio and New York Gypsy All-Stars Live at Princeton University
As we attempt to push forward through a global pandemic, the quest to find solace in our everyday lives is more important than ever before. The medicinal effect of making and/or listening to music is scientifically proven to reduce anxiety—something … Continue reading