A Family Portrait: Memories I Will Never Forget

Naira Babayan’s story follows her from Armenia to concert halls around the world, where she performed as an accomplished concert pianist. Following the tragic loss of her father in an automobile accident, she was raised by her mother and grandparents. Her family discovered her musical gifts early on, and she was accepted to the Tchaikovsky Music School for talented students in Yerevan, Armenia. Dr. Babayan became an accomplished concert pianist travelling throughout the world to perform, and pedagogue. After facing hardships in Yerevan, and separation from her husband, she eventually made her way to the United States, where she and her daughters have survived and thrived.

Dr. Babayan is considered by many composers and musicologists to be one of the few living interpreters at the piano of Armenian folkloric and classical repertoire. Naira’s exceptional talent and artistic approach to musical interpretation make her a clear standout among many others, particularly her expressiveness, attention to the smallest musical details, unique style and technical virtuosity. She is an Armenian Treasure! – Konstantin Orbelyan