UCLA's Armenian Music Program - Recap of the Past Year
In the heart of Los Angeles, the Armenian Music Program at UCLA's Herb Alpert School of Music continues to thrive, celebrating and preserving Armenian musical heritage. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the program has adapted and flourished, showcasing a series of new developments and accomplishments.
During the 2019-2020 academic year, the program expanded its academic branch, introducing two new courses - a graduate seminar on Armenian folk music and a lecture on the Armenian Music Ensemble. The inaugural offering of the Armenian Music Ensemble marked a significant milestone, providing students with the opportunity to learn traditional Armenian songs through virtual classes.
The program's flagship ensemble, the VEM Quartet, began exploring Armenian classical music during this period, and their efforts culminated in a virtual performance of Komitas' Kaqavik for the "Gems of Armenian Music" Fiat Lux class. The quartet also collaborated with UCLA and local Armenian High school students, delivering outreach shows that fostered a deeper understanding and appreciation of Armenian music.
The VEM Quartet's efforts were reflected in the release of the album "Modulation Necklace" by New Focus Recordings in the 2020-2021 academic year. This CD of Armenian Music, featuring the UCLA VEM Ensemble alongside internationally renowned musicians, received critical acclaim from various national and international publications.
Looking ahead to the future, the Armenian Music Program is eagerly anticipating the release of Tigran Hamasyan's new album, The Call Within, which was also recorded at UCLA. Hamasyan, a world-renowned jazz pianist, is expected to return to the program for workshops on improvisation during the winter and spring quarters.
The program is also looking forward to recording a second CD, a "sequel" to Modulation Necklace, which will highlight the works of contemporary Armenian composers. The program is hopeful that live performances will return, and the VEM Ensemble will continue its busy outreach program, culminating with a return to Armenia in June 2021.
The Armenian Music Program's activities, including classes, concerts, tours, collaborations, and recordings, are made possible by the assistance and encouragement of its community partners and supporters. For detailed and up-to-date information regarding accomplishments in 2019-2020 and future plans, it is recommended to check UCLA's official Herb Alpert School of Music announcements or contact the Armenian Music Program directly.
Through the initiative of the Armenian Music Program at UCLA's Herb Alpert School of Music, students are not only honing their skills in traditional Armenian music but also delving into online education, with courses such as the graduate seminar on Armenian folk music and the lecture on the Armenian Music Ensemble. Parallel to entertainment, virtual concerts and collaborations with renowned musicians like Tigran Hamasyan are fostering a global appreciation for Armenian music.
