The TV Presentation of the Book “Arno Babadjanian: An Armenian Beat in Soviet Time” (Video)

The preface to the book was written by Anna Asatryan, Director of the NAS Institute of Arts. She highlighted the significance of this study, noting that it is the first time Babadjanian’s creative journey has been presented in English, thus making Armenian music more accessible to the world.

“It is crucial that the brilliant composer’s creative path is introduced in English for the first time. Nuné Melikyan has played a major role in promoting Armenian classical and modern music. The international recognition of our art is essential, and it is vital for the scientific and musical communities to acknowledge the achievements of Armenian musicians.”

Asatryan emphasized the importance of widely disseminating Babadjanian’s work, as he is one of the most prominent figures in Armenian music. His compositions blend pop and classical music in a unique way.

“Babadjanian is one of those exceptional composers whose every work is a masterpiece. Although his life was short, he received the highest accolades in the USSR. However, he was also an outstanding composer in the classical music genre.”

Nuné Melikyan, who heads one of the North American branches of the Arno Babadjanian Foundation, conducted extensive research into Babadjanian’s archives and included exclusive photos, letters, and facts that had never been published before. She shared why she chose to focus on Babadjanian’s creative journey for her doctoral dissertation.

“I have always loved Babadjanian’s music. The first piece I heard was “The Dance of Vagharshapat,” which my sister played on the piano, and it quickly became one of my favorites. That experience inspired me to write my doctoral dissertation about Babadjanian, as there was no similar work available in English.”

Melikyan explained that Babadjanian’s exceptional talent as a composer and musician motivated her to share his story with an international audience.

“This book is especially meant for foreign readers and specialists. On the cover, you will find exclusive photos of Babadjanian with Shostakovich and Saroyan. Most of these images were provided to me by Ara Babadjanian, Arno’s son.”

In addition to exploring Babadjanian’s professional and musical life, Melikyan also delves into interesting episodes from his personal life. Some of the facts shared in the book are being revealed for the first time in scientific circles.