"Hommage à Komitas" is a captivating album that pays tribute to the profound and enduring legacy of Komitas, a pivotal figure in Armenian music. Released on September 1, 2006, under the Audite Musikproduktion label, this collection features the enchanting performances of Hasmik Papian and Vardan Mamikonian, who bring to life a blend of Armenian and German songs with exquisite artistry.
The album spans a rich tapestry of 35 tracks, divided into two main sections: "Armenian Songs" and "Nine Songs on German Poems." Each piece is a testament to Komitas' deep connection to his cultural roots and his innovative approach to music. The Armenian songs, collected during his travels through the Armenian highlands, are imbued with the spirit of the land and its people, while the German poems reflect his broader musical influences and education.
Komitas' own tragic history adds a layer of depth to the album. A victim of the mass arrests and deportations of 1915, his experiences left an indelible mark on his life and work. This album not only celebrates his musical genius but also honors his resilience and the enduring power of his compositions.
With a duration of 1 hour and 13 minutes, "Hommage à Komitas" offers a comprehensive journey through the works of one of Armenia's most revered composers. Whether you are a fan of classical music, a lover of folk melodies, or simply someone seeking to explore the rich cultural heritage of Armenia, this album is a treasure trove of musical beauty and historical significance.
Komitas, born Soghomon Soghomonian, was a multifaceted figure in Armenian music and culture, renowned as a composer, musicologist, and choirmaster. Ordained as a priest in 1894, he adopted the name Komitas and dedicated his life to preserving and promoting Armenian musical heritage. Komitas is celebrated as the founder of the Armenian national school of music and a pioneer in the field of ethnomusicology. His work spans compositions, arrangements, and scholarly treatises, all of which reflect his deep commitment to Armenian folk music and his innovative approach to ethnomusicology. Despite the tragedies he endured, including his arrest during the Armenian Genocide, Komitas' legacy endures through his extensive body of work, which continues to inspire and educate. His contributions to Armenian music are vast, encompassing solo piano pieces, choral works, and ethnomusicological studies that have left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.
Vinylscout
Komitas
