I’m thrilled to share that Armenian musician Arman Peshtmaljyan received a nomination for “Best Folk Song” at the World Entertainment Awards! His piece “Zartir Nazelis” is a fresh take on Armenian tagh music, drawing inspiration from the works of Komitas Vardapet. This nomination highlights Peshtmaljyan’s mission to revive forgotten Armenian melodies, including his arrangements of songs like “Nstir Im Gyamin” and “Amran Gisher.”
Arman Peshtmaljyan isn’t just a talented musician; he’s a composer, arranger, and producer. His background is diverse, having studied jazz, pop, folk, and fusion music, and he isn’t afraid to experiment with genres like techno and lo-fi hip hop. He began his musical journey in Yerevan, where he learned numerous instruments and later honed his skills in Switzerland.
His collaborations span across various groups, including the Armenian Navy Band and the State Jazz Orchestra of Armenia, allowing him to explore different musical styles and expand his artistry.
In a recent conversation, Peshtmaljyan shared his passion for music. He described how music found him as a child, drawing him in even before he could reach the piano keys. He also discussed the importance of his project to preserve Armenian folk music. After hearing a Turkish version of “Zartir Nazelis,” he realized many traditional Armenian songs were at risk of being forgotten. He aims to bring these beautiful melodies back to life and ensure they don’t get lost to time.
His research process is thorough; he connects with musicologists and digs deep into archives to find lesser-known tunes that have cultural significance. He believes every folk song carries a story worth sharing, adding both music and history to his projects.
Peshmaljyan’s nomination for “Best Folk Song” is a big achievement. He expressed that such recognition is not just for him but serves as a platform for showcasing Armenian culture on a global stage. He wants the world to experience the unique sounds of Armenian music, which he feels offers something new and beautiful.
For him, awards provide essential exposure. They help introduce Armenian musicians to a wider audience, especially since opportunities for professional music promotion in Armenia are limited.
Peshtmaljyan blends various genres in his music, creatively mixing folk elements with jazz and rock. His arrangements breathe new life into traditional songs, making them relevant for today’s listeners. For instance, in his arrangement of “Amran Gisher,” he introduced modern harmonic transitions that make the piece feel fresh.
Living and studying abroad has broadened his artistic perspective, allowing him to engage with prominent jazz artists and perform in front of diverse audiences. This international experience has shaped his style and given him valuable insights into effective performance and composition.
His own project, the Arman Peshtmaljyan Group, aims to modernize the Armenian jazz scene by performing original compositions. He believes there’s a clear need for innovation in Armenian jazz, moving away from the traditional standards that dominate the local scene.
Currently, Peshmaljyan is diving into dream pop, hoping to create a unique Armenian style within this genre. His journey highlights his commitment to both preserving and innovating Armenian music. As he continues to build his career, his focus remains on elevating Armenian cultural heritage and making it resonate with audiences worldwide.
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