Armen has begun composing for Rhythms of Art: January 26th, 2006. This concert will feature an ensemble of new musicians to Rhythms of Art series. While the announcement of personnel has yet to be announced Armen states that there will be a few surprises and only the highest caliber of musician.

Last year, Armen composed over 30 works inspired by early Armenian folk music. This music has never been heard or performed. Great News! Armen is scheduled to premiere a concert of this music at the Fresno Art Museum in mid-April 2006. The ensemble slated to perform this music is yet to be announced. Stay tuned for more details.

Armen is currently working on music to feature saxophonist Jimmy Emerzian. This concert will be presented in early spring 2006.

Armen is currently in negotiations to establish a weekly performance that will feature a different ensemble at every gig. Both the venue and ensembles are currently unannounced; however Armen has stated that his Rhythms of Art Quartet will be among the ensembles. These performances are scheduled to begin in January 2006.

“Speak the Blues,” was a great success. Apparently, Armen has already begun working on “Speak the Blues” II. The improvisation between Armen and poet Chrissy Anderson-Zavala will be available for free download in early 2006.

Listen all next week to Jazz Portraits with Joe Moore on KFSR 90.7 Fresno from 9am-noon to win free tickets to “Speak the Blues.”

As he prepares for next week’s “Speak the Blues” concert, Armen adds 2 new ensembles to his performance groups. The first band premiered last night st the Landmark and featured duets with Sean Aldrette. Armen played organ and Fender Rhodes. The gig features no set list, but just the tunes that Armen and Sean “morph” into. Last night’s set included songs by Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, Kurt Cobain, Paul McCartney, Kanye West, and more.

This Friday (12/09), Armen will be playing Fender Rhodes and joining the members of the Kevin Hill Trio to perform and Veni Vidi Vici. Details of the set list are not yet announced.

The Rhythm’s of Art concert scheduled for Thursday December 29th will be entitled “Swingin’ into the New Year,” and according to Armen will have a fun surprise! Stay connected for more details!

New performance dates announced. See the itinerary link.