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Interview with Armen Nalbandian
February 14, 2011
Armen Nalbandian is a jazz pianist, composer, and author. For information about his work, visit www.armennalbandian.com.
Tibbetts: How long have you composed, and what made you decide to become a composer?
Nalbandian: I have composed seriously for the past 17 years, since I was 15 years old. I decided to become a composer and musician after hearing the drummer Elvin Jones on a recording. At that moment, I felt connected to the music, but more than just a listener. I knew that I needed to become a part of it.
Tibbetts: What inspires you?
Nalbandian: There are countless things that do. Primarily all of the arts: music, art, architecture, design, dance, fashion, film, etc. Sometimes, I'm inspired directly: for instance, with the work of Basquiat or Rothko. Other times, its something like a culmination of things I have been checking out recently. Other than the arts, I could be inspired by a great meal, a conversation, and interaction with someone; it all finds a way to inspire me.
Tibbetts: Of all you have done, what do you consider your best work, and why?
Nalbandian: My immediate answer is to say my recording, Manchester Born. The collection of those songs so accurately portrays how I felt during that recording, in addition to those things that were inspiring me at the time. Other compositions include Space from my album To Repel Ghosts, a recording I did with Han Bennink that I have yet to release, my recording Young Kings Get Their Heads Cut Off, and a book of music I wrote inspired by Arshille Gorky's work. All of the work I mentioned came from an honest and personal place and despite the artistic growth I've had since then, I still feel very connected to them.
Tibbetts: What is your 'typical day' like?
Nalbandian: I don't have too many "typical" days because I try to vary them and experience as many new things and approaches as I can. But fundamentals of my day usually include a great deal of listening to a variety of music, a good meal, and plenty of physical exercise. I think one's mind and personal creativity is completely tied in to their lifestyle. As a result I try to maintain a relatively healthy lifestyle.
Tibbetts: Do you have any words of wisdom to offer to aspiring composers and musicians?
Nalbandian: Listen to everything you can get your hands on, then listen to it again.
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