Vardan (Armenia) studied at the Romanos Melikian Musical College. He specialized in the doudouk, a wind instrument that dates back to the 5th century BC and that perfectly reflects the Armenian sound and soul. Vardan has performed around the world solo, as part of a duo, with his group Arax, with Blindnote, or together with Israeli singer Yasmin Levy or Armenian singer Abdelli. In Armenia, he played with the National Folk Music Ensemble, as well as in groups like Gandzsar, Marathouk & Ervand Saharouny. Here he conjures up the melancholy spirit of this shepherds’ song, ‘Hovivi Kanch’.

 Images: Rafael Serenellini
 Sound: Mathieu Alexandre
 Translation: Anthony Lockett