I am delighted to share with you my latest musical perfomance of a piece that I wrote fourteen years ago, “Armenian Roots,” a tribute to my Armenian heritage. This piece was composed for the duduk, a traditional Armenian woodwind instrument, and features my own performance on the instrument.
I have always felt a deep connection to my cultural roots. My ancestors survived the Armenian Genocide and persevered through many hardships, and I am honored to be able to pay homage to their legacy through my music.
The duduk, with its hauntingly beautiful sound, is the perfect instrument to convey the depth of emotion and history that inspired “Armenian Roots.” The piece begins with a mournful melody, evoking the pain and loss of the past, before transitioning to a more uplifting and triumphant section that celebrates the resilience and strength of the Armenian people.
In composing “Armenian Roots,” I drew inspiration from a variety of sources, including traditional Armenian folk music, classical Armenian composers such as Komitas, and I also incorporated elements of Western classical music to create a fusion of styles that reflects my own personal musical journey and influences.
Performing the duduk for this piece was a deeply personal and meaningful experience for me. It allowed me to connect with my heritage in a way that words cannot express. The instrument itself has a rich history and symbolism in Armenian culture, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share its unique voice with a wider audience.
Through “Armenian Roots,” I hope to not only honor my own family’s history but also to contribute to the preservation and celebration of Armenian culture for future generations. I believe that music has the power to transcend language and cultural barriers, and I hope that this piece can serve as a bridge between different communities and help to promote understanding and appreciation for the rich diversity of our world.
The performance can be listened here