Music:
Member Since: 5/15/2006
Band Website: www.arevensemble.org
Band Members: John Kozelian - Ud.
Ani Zargarian - Vocals.
Martin Haroutunian - Dap, Duduk, Zurna, Kopal Dhol, Shvi, Parkapzuk, Pku, Sring (Blul).
Tamar Melkonian - Vocals.
Markos Shahbazyan - Dhol.
Edo Babrudi - Dhol.
David Gevorgian - Duduk, Zurna, Shvi.
Influences:
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Antsnink Sasun
Sounds Like: "The Arev Armenian Folk Ensemble, drawing upon the semiotic powers of
music, has recently released a powerful recording of Armenian music dedicated to the victims of the Armenian Genocide. In many ways, the message of the recording is twofold: it stands in testimony to an Armenia that no longer exists, yet, with its repeated allusions to the sun (arev in
Armenian) and daybreak, provides hope for a new beginning. Arev's task here is not a simple one, for all too often these sorts of ambitions fall prey to hackneyed, commonplace evocations of grief and mourning - cheap tricks in exchange for your tears. However, the skillful Arev ensemble approaches the recording with a refreshing dignity and aplomb that takes the listener on a journey through indigenous Armenian music in its purest state, free from the common infusions of Russian, Turkish, and Arabic elements that only remind one of oppressors past.Under the direction of Martin Haroutunian, the Massachusetts-based Arev ensemble displays remarkable talent and ingenuity in the interpretation of the cherished folk songs on the recording. The main instruments on display - the duduk, zurna, dhol, and ud - in addition to other traditional Armenian instruments, receive the most virtuosic treatment in the able hands of Haroutunian, John Kozelian, Markos Shahbazyan, and Garo Der Hagopian. Ani Zargarian leads the vocals with a well-controlled voice free of overwrought embellishment, yet capable of a range of affects, from heart-rending yearning to the most joyous calls of celebration. Beautiful depth is provided by the adroit harmonies of background vocalist Tamar Melkonian."- Sylvia Alajaji
Record Label: Arev Armenian Folk Ensemble
