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Sahan ArzruniArmenian classical pianist, composer, ethnomusicologist, lecturer, writer and producer
Date of Birth: 08.06.1943
Country:  USA |
Content:
- An Armenian Maestro: Shahan Arzruni
- New York and Beyond
- Preserving Armenian Heritage
- Scholarly Pursuits
- International Performance and Collaborations
- Honors and Recognition
An Armenian Maestro: Shahan Arzruni
Early Life and EducationShahan Arzruni, born on June 8, 1943, in Istanbul, Turkey, was raised in an aristocratic Armenian family. His musical journey began at Armenian lyceums and the Istanbul Municipal Conservatory, where he honed his piano skills under Ferdi Statzer and studied harmony with Raşit Abed.
New York and Beyond
In 1964, Arzruni relocated to New York City, pursuing advanced studies at Juilliard School of Music with a scholarship from the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation. He received guidance from renowned musicians Sascha Gorodnitzki (piano), Felix Galimir (chamber music), and Joseph Bloch (world piano literature).
Preserving Armenian Heritage
Despite his international career, Arzruni remained deeply connected to his Armenian roots. He became a leading expert on traditional Armenian music, recording an anthology of piano works and co-producing an eight-record collection of instrumental and vocal Armenian music.
Scholarly Pursuits
Beyond his musical endeavors, Arzruni pursued doctoral studies at New York University. His research and writings focused on Armenian music and culture, resulting in articles in scholarly journals and contributions to "The New Grove Dictionary" and "Dictionary of the Middle Ages."
International Performance and Collaborations
Arzruni's performances spanned stages worldwide, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where he played an 1869 Steinway piano. His collaborations included partnering with comedian Victor Borge, appearing on the "Royal Variety Show Command Performance," and participating in numerous television and radio broadcasts, including "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson" and PBS specials.
Honors and Recognition
Arzruni's exceptional contributions to music were acknowledged with various accolades. In 2008, he received an honorary professorship from the Yerevan Komitas State Conservatory in Armenia. His recordings have been released on prestigious labels such as "New World Records" and "Composers Recordings."
