The Official Concept

Ara Malikian


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Ara Malikian, the virtuoso violinist born into an Armenian family in Beirut in 1968, is a maestro of international acclaim, seamlessly blending his Lebanese roots with a global musical palette. Educated in Germany and now a resident of Spain, Malikian's musical odyssey commenced under the tutelage of his violinist father, leading to a debut concert at the tender age of 12. At 14, he became the youngest-ever student at the Hochschule für Musik und Theater Hannover in Germany.
Distinguished by a repertoire that spans Middle Eastern, Central European, Argentinean, and Spanish influences, Malikian has not only championed classical masterpieces but also premiered compositions by contemporary maestros. His laurels include triumphs in esteemed competitions, with a string of first prizes and accolades from Berlin to Pamplona, showcasing his prowess.
As a soloist, Malikian has graced renowned stages worldwide, from Carnegie Hall to Salle Pleyel, leaving an indelible mark with orchestras conducted by luminaries such as Mariss Jansons and Vladimir Spivakov. Residing in Madrid, he held the esteemed position of concertmaster for the Orquesta Sinfónica de Madrid, enriching the city's musical tapestry.
Beyond the classical realm, Malikian's collaborations span genres and artists, from flamenco guitarist José Luis Montón to iconic figures like Fairuz and Joaquín Cortés. His discography, an opulent array of solo and collaborative albums, attests to his dexterity in interpreting classical opuses and exploring diverse musical landscapes.
Recognized not only for his musical virtuosity but also for his versatility, Malikian's nominations and awards underscore his enduring impact. His presence extends to the cinematic realm, contributing to iconic soundtracks in Pedro Almodóvar's "Hable Con Ella" and Carlos Saura's "J: Beyond Flamenco."
In essence, Ara Malikian transcends the boundaries of classical virtuosity, weaving a captivating narrative of cultural fusion and artistic brilliance that resonates on the global stage.
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The Official ConceptBy Allan Campbell