* Nationality: Soviet Armenian
* Genre: Classical music, ballet, film scores
* Famous works: "Sabre Dance," "Gayaneh Ballet Suite," "Spartacus Ballet Suite," "Violin Concerto"
Aram Khachaturian is considered one of the most prominent and influential composers of the 20th century. His music is characterized by its rich orchestration, vibrant melodies, and rhythmic vitality.
Early Life and Education:
* Born in Tbilisi, Georgia, on June 6, 1903.
* Studied music at the Tbilisi Conservatory and later at the Moscow Conservatory.
* Initially focused on folk music and traditional Armenian melodies.
Career Highlights:
* Gained international recognition with the premiere of his "Sabre Dance" from the ballet "Gayaneh" in 1942.
* Composed music for numerous ballets, including "Spartacus" (1954) and "Masquerade" (1941).
* Collaborated with famed ballet dancer and choreographer Maya Plisetskaya.
* Wrote film scores, including the music for the movie "Admiral Nakhimov" (1946) and the Soviet film classic "The Battle of Stalingrad" (1949).
Musical Style:
* Melodic and lyrical writing, often inspired by Armenian folk music.
* Strong rhythmic drive, with complex meter changes.
* Vivid and colorful orchestration, often featuring traditional Armenian instruments.
* Integration of Armenian melodies, rhythms, and harmonies into his compositions.
Recognition and Awards:
* Received numerous awards and distinctions for his music, including the Stalin Prize (now known as the State Prize of the USSR) and the Lenin Prize.
* Became an Honored Artist of the Armenian SSR and the People's Artist of the USSR.
Aram Khachaturian passed away on May 1, 1978, in Moscow. His music continues to be performed and admired by audiences worldwide, cementing his legacy as a master of 20th-century classical music.