Tigran Hamasyan is a leading Armenian jazz pianist and composer, born in Gyumri, Armenia, in 1987. Throughout his career he has successfully fused a variety of musical influences to create a unique style that combines elements of jazz, Armenian folklore, classical music and contemporary music. He has worked in various formats, including trios, quartets and solo projects, and here we focus on his Tigran Hamasyan Trio.
The Tigran Hamasyan Trio is one of the most popular configurations in which Tigran has performed throughout his career. The trio typically features Tigran Hamasyan on piano and vocals, Samuel Dubois on bass and Arthur Hnatek on drums. Together, they create a unique musical experience that fuses contemporary jazz, improvisation and a strong Armenian musical influence.
One of the trio’s distinctive features is the way Tigran Hamasyan weaves elements of Armenian music into his jazz. This includes the use of Armenian musical scales and modes, as well as adapting Armenian folk melodies into his playing. Tigran is also known for his virtuosic piano playing, ranging from delicate melodic passages to moments of great intensity and rhythmic complexity.
As for their repertoire, the Tigran Hamasyan Trio performs a mix of Tigran’s original compositions as well as unique reinterpretations of jazz standards and Armenian folk themes. This musical versatility, combined with the trio members’ exceptional technique, creates a distinctive, engaging sound that draws in listeners of many musical tastes.
Tigran Hamasyan is known for his ability to take audiences on an exciting, varied musical journey through his music. His virtuosity at the piano, his expressive voice and his deep knowledge of Armenian music combine to create a sound that is both innovative and rooted in tradition. The interplay between the trio members, their musical communication and their ability to improvise in real time are also standout aspects of their live performances.