photo by Vahan StepanyanThrough his exceptional talent, technical prowess, and innovative approach to music, Tigran Hamasyan has made a lasting impact on the jazz and contemporary music scenes, and this is in no small part thanks to “The Bird of a Thousand Voices,” an ambitious concept album and transmedia project that encompasses a live-staged play, two cinematic fiction music videos, a documentary music video, and an interactive online game. This multifaceted work is inspired by the rich, beautiful folklore of his native Armenia.
“Areg and Manushak,” the second single from Tigran Hamasyan‘s highly anticipated conceptual album, serves as a poignant representation of the tragic love story and destined path of Prince Areg and Manushak (Violet), as foretold by a wise elder’s prophetic vision. The melody of this song acts as a leitmotif, embodying Areg’s internal dramatic and tragic path on his quest to find and retrieve the divine bird and its eternal song, to restore love, peace, and harmony in a world that has lost its way.
Roughly a decade ago, Tigran Hamasyan met award-winning filmmaker Ruben Van Leer during a collaboration at the Cité de la Musique in Paris, creating “Shadow Theater”, a visual
musical experience. They created several music videos together (Cave of Rebirth & Fides Tua). Last year, when Tigran Hamasyan wrote his ambitious folklore opus, he enlisted Van Leer’s help once more to help bring these important visions to life.
Shot on location in Armenia, the album and a documentary-style film were released this past May. Through their collaborative efforts, Tigran Hamasyan and Ruben Van Leer have crafted a unique and engaging experience that seamlessly blends music, storytelling, and visual art, inviting audiences to embark on an immersive and unique journey through people’s history.
Connect with Tigran Hamasyan on socials: INSTAGRAM | WEBSITE | TIKTOK
