Our Foundation & Early Years
Zareh Sahakyants
Artistic Director and Principal Conductor
Founded on Excellence: Our Legacy Since 1962
The National Chamber Orchestra of Armenia was founded in 1962 by prominent violinist Zareh Sahakiants, whose brilliant individuality and exceptional reputation enabled him to unite a group of dedicated musicians. In a remarkably short period, the orchestra gained an outstanding reputation both in Armenia and far beyond its borders.
Zareh Sahakyants established rich performing and creative traditions that became the foundation of our artistic identity. His vision for combining technical excellence with deep musical expression created a unique orchestral culture that distinguished NCOA from its inception.
These established traditions were further developed and enriched by subsequent directors who carried forward his legacy: Kostandin Baghdasaryan (from 1975) and Ruben Aharonyan (from 1982). Each brought their own artistic perspectives while maintaining the high standards and innovative spirit that Sahakyants had instilled in the orchestra.
The Birth of Modern NCOA
A Historic Union: Formation of Today's NCOA
In 1997, a pivotal moment in Armenian musical history occurred when our orchestra united with the Yerevan Chamber Orchestra, which had been founded in 1979 under the leadership of conductor Zaven Vardanyan. This merger created the National Chamber Orchestra of Armenia (NCOA) as we know it today, combining the strengths and traditions of both ensembles.
American-Armenian conductor Aram Gharabekian was appointed as the first Artistic Director of the newly formed NCOA. Under his visionary leadership, the orchestra embarked on an ambitious mission to expand the boundaries of chamber music. Gharabekian’s tenure was marked by extraordinary creativity and innovation.
The NCOA commissioned and premiered more than 40 new works during this period, actively promoting the integration of traditional Armenian musical instruments such as duduk, zurna, shvi, and kamancha into contemporary compositions. This groundbreaking approach created a unique sound that honored Armenian heritage while embracing modern artistic expression. The orchestra also recorded three significant CDs featuring works by contemporary Armenian composers, establishing a valuable musical archive.
Current Leadership & Vision
Vahan Mardirossian
Artistic Director and Principal Conductor
Leading NCOA into the Future Since 2011
In 2011, Vahan Mardirossian assumed the role of Artistic Director and Principal Conductor, bringing a deep commitment to preserving our heritage while advancing our artistic mission. Under his distinguished leadership, NCOA has continued showcasing classical and contemporary Armenian composers on the international stage while promoting classical music among Armenian audiences.
As one of six distinguished ensembles at the National Chamber Music Centre, NCOA maintains an active performance schedule, presenting over 35 concerts annually at our residency and the prestigious Aram Khachaturian Concert Hall, as well as in various regions throughout Armenia and internationally.
Mardirossian’s vision emphasizes education and mentorship, creating opportunities for talented children and young people to develop their skills by performing with our professional orchestra. We actively participate in international festivals, collaborate with renowned soloists and conductors, and work closely with diplomatic missions to facilitate cultural exchange through music.
