Arman Peshtmaljyan, an Armenian musician, has been nominated for Best Folk Song at the prestigious World Entertainment Awards for his composition “Zartir Nazelis.” The piece, a transformation of an Armenian tagh based on the ethnographic works of Komitas Vardapet, reflects Peshtmaljyan’s larger mission of preserving forgotten Armenian music. His work spans across various genres, including jazz, pop, folk, and fusion, with a unique exploration of contemporary styles like techno, lo-fi hip hop, and psychedelic soul.
This nomination highlights his dedication to not only reviving Armenian folk traditions but also making them accessible to a global audience. His efforts are a part of a broader initiative where he has reimagined and recorded iconic songs such as “Nstir Im Gyamin” and “Amran Gisher,” marking the first-ever arrangements of these folk gems.
Journey to Music and Passion for Preservation
Peshtmaljyan’s journey into music began at a young age, guided by an innate connection to the piano. Recalling his childhood, he described how music “found him” as he instinctively felt the notes on the keys, a physical and almost spiritual connection. This early love for music led him to study multiple instruments at the Alexander Hekimyan Music School in Yerevan and later, to specialize in piano and composition at the Komitas Yerevan State Conservatory. He further honed his craft with a master’s degree in jazz composition from the Basel Academy of Music in Switzerland.
A Catalyst for Preserving Armenian Music
In 2019, Peshtmaljyan was invited to perform at a concert in Istanbul celebrating the 150th anniversary of Komitas Vardapet. During the concert, he heard a Turkish rendition of “Zartir Nazelis,” a song with deep Armenian roots, and this moment became a catalyst for his current project. “It struck me deeply,” he recalls. “There are so many Armenian folk songs we don’t know or listen to, but in neighboring countries, they are still performed and sometimes claimed as their own.” This realization led him to focus on making Armenian folk music popular again and preserving it from being forgotten.
Research and Collaboration: A Methodical Process
Peshtmaljyan’s process for uncovering and preserving Armenian folk music is meticulous. His journey often begins by hearing melodies from various sources—musician friends, singers, and even the general public—and then researching their origins. He collaborates closely with musicologists and ethnologists to ensure the accuracy of his findings, diving into archives and internet searches to piece together the history of each song. “Behind every folk song, there’s always an interesting story,” he says. When sharing these songs, he makes sure to not only showcase the music but also the rich traditions and histories that accompany them.
Criteria for Choosing Folk Songs
Peshtmaljyan’s criteria for selecting which folk songs to rearrange are based on their historical and cultural significance. He seeks out songs that are not widely known or have been lost to time, often existing only in low-quality recordings or in the memories of small communities. His goal is to bring these songs to life, ensuring they are preserved with high-quality recordings and made accessible to both local and international audiences.
Through his compositions and arrangements, Arman Peshtmaljyan continues to play a crucial role in ensuring that Armenian folk music remains a vibrant and respected part of the world’s musical heritage. His work not only bridges the past with the present but also paves the way for future generations to connect with these cultural treasures.
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