Armenia's role in jazz music

Jazz originated in the USA, but was further developed worldwide. Armenia plays a special role in this, as many musicians of Armenian origin have influenced jazz internationally. They combined jazz with Armenian folk and church music, creating a unique style.

Since Armenians are scattered all over the world and far more Armenians live abroad than in Armenia itself, we speak of the Armenian diaspora. Many Armenian jazz musicians therefore lived and worked outside Armenia – mainly in the USA, Europe, and Latin America. In the diaspora, they had access to international jazz scenes and were able to combine Armenian musical traditions with Western jazz. In this way, Armenians in the diaspora made a decisive contribution to making Armenian culture known throughout the world.

Jazz in Armenia

Jazz came to Armenia as early as the 20th century. During the Soviet era, jazz was partially banned, but it continued to develop nonetheless, especially in Yerevan. After Armenia gained independence, a lively jazz scene emerged with festivals and international performances.

Armenia has made an important contribution to jazz music. Musicians of Armenian origin have shaped jazz worldwide—as artists, composers, producers, and teachers. The connection between jazz and Armenian musical tradition makes their contribution unique and culturally particularly valuable.

on 12/22/2025 by Karen Asatrian Wölfnitz | Austria

https://easterndaze.net/the-story-of-jazz-in-armenia/