PM congratulates Eduard Mirzoyan on 90th jubilee

Armenia’s prime minister has congratulated renowned Armenian composer Edward Mirzoyan on the occasion of his 90th anniversary.

In a congratulatory message addressed to Mirzoyan, People’s Artist of the former Soviet Union, as well as the Republic of Armenia, Tigran Sargsyan said that his talent is reflected in his pieces that represent various genres of music and which are being played in many prestigious stages.

“For several decades now your cultural heritage has been a significant part of the treasury of the Armenian culture with which our nation is represented to the world,” read the message.

“Of your several human and civic virtues stands out your infinite modesty which far more decorates your honest attitude of an artist,” Sargsyan said in the message, wishing the composer good health and endless efforts.

Eduard Mirzoyan was born in Gori, Georgia. Initially schooled in music in Yerevan and graduated from the Komitas State Conservatory, Mirzoyan went on to Moscow to further refine his art.

In late 1956 he was elected president of the Armenian Composers’ Union, a position he held until 1991. He is currently a professor of composition at the Komitas State Conservatory, and president of the Peace Foundation of Armenia.

Mirzoyan’s compositional output is relatively small but quite distinguished, combining graceful lyricism with intense drama. With its formal structure and tonal design, his style has been described as Neoclassical, with elements of Armenian folksong always present.

Mirzoyan’s String Quartet, Cello Sonata, Symphony for Strings and Timpani, and Epitaph for String Orchestra have become notable additions to the international music repertoire.