Alexander Spendiarov - Symphonic Works (Vag Papian)

Information

Composer: Alexander Spendiarov

1. Etude on Hebrew Melodies, 1921
2. Mourning Prelude (written on the occasion of Rimsky-Korsakov’s death, Op. 20, 1908)
3. "Three Palms" Symphonic Poem, Op. 10, 1905
4. Lullaby, Op. 3 No. 2, 1897

Armenian State Symphony Orchestra

Vag Papian, conductor

Date: 2025

Label: Amara

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Alexander Spendiarov (1 November 1871 – 7 May 1928) was a Russian composer of Armenian descent. Educated in law at Moscow University, he later studied composition under Rimsky-Korsakov in St Petersburg. His early works gained popularity, and he became associated with prominent cultural figures such as Maxim Gorky and Rachmaninov. Notable compositions include Crimean Sketches and the opera Almast. A committed cultural and political figure, Spendiarov supported Armenian causes and contributed significantly to Armenia's musical life after relocating to Yerevan, where he helped establish its national musical institutions.

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Vag Papian (born 1956 in Yerevan) is an Armenian pianist and conductor. He studied piano at the Yerevan Tchaikovsky School of Music and the Moscow Conservatory under Mikhail Voskresensky, and conducting at the Saint Petersburg Conservatory with Ilya Musin. His international career began after winning second prize at the 1979 Vianna da Motta Competition. Papian has performed in over 50 countries and served as Artistic Director and Principal Conductor of major orchestras in Armenia, Kazakhstan and Israel. He currently teaches at Tel Aviv University while presenting masterclasses internationally.

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