John Berberian
John Berberian is an oud virtuoso born in the United States to Armenian immigrant parents. His father was an accomplished oud player, as well as instrument maker. He first recorded traditional oud music while he was a student at Columbia University in the early 1960s. He subsequently recorded for a variety of labels including MGM, RCA, Roulette, Verve, and Mainstream Records. Notable albums in his discography include Expressions East (1964), Oud Artistry (1965), Music of the Middle East (1966), and Middle Eastern Rock (1969), which fuse traditional Middle Eastern folk with psychedelic rock and jazz.
Armadi Tsayn
Armadi Tsayn, which means “Sounds/Voice of the Roots” in Armenian, will be accompanying Berberian with an ensemble of talented young musicians. The group pays homage to the rich musical heritage of Western Armenia and the captivating melodies of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). This contemporary folk ensemble, founded by Alek Surenian and Sam Sjostedt, who both studied under Berberian, is making a name for itself thanks to its blend of traditional melodies and modern influences. Armadi Tsayn has played in major cities including Boston, Worcester, New York City, Los Angeles, Toronto, and Yerevan, Armenia.
RazAvaz
RazAvaz, a contemporary Persian ensemble based in Boston, will be performing an opening set before Berberian and Armadi Tsayn take the stage. Their fusion of classical Persian folk with modern influences creates an atmospheric and ethereal soundscape, inviting listeners to immerse themselves fully in their music.
