Vardan Hovanissian

**Vardan Hovanissian** is an **Armenian duduk virtuoso** who's become one of the most celebrated ambassadors for this ancient double-reed instrument. After studying under master instrumentalist Khachik Khachratryan, Hovanissian developed into a specialist in traditional Armenian woodwind instruments, bringing the warm, soulful timbre of the duduk—an instrument dating back to the 5th century BC—to audiences across Europe, Canada, Australia, and Asia. Beyond his solo work, he's collaborated with renowned artists like Yasmin Levy and performed with ensembles including the National Folk Music Ensemble and bands like Gandzsar and Marathouk.

Perhaps best known for his musical partnership with Turkish saz player **Emre Gültekin**, Hovanissian has created some truly moving cross-cultural albums that bridge Armenian and Turkish musical traditions. Their collaboration started when they met in Brussels and has since blossomed into over 200 concerts across Europe's most prestigious venues and festivals. Albums like *Adana* (2015), *Karin* (2018)—which hit number 1 on the January 2019 Transglobal World Music Chart—and *Dersim* (2025) showcase their shared vision of using music to celebrate friendship and harmony between cultures with deep historical roots. Deeply rooted in traditional Armenian music while drawing inspiration from Turkish, Syrian, and European folk and jazz influences, Hovanissian's work stands as a powerful testament to music's ability to transcend borders and heal divisions.