“Christianity & the Amazing Armenians: 10 Facts”

Music has played a fundamental role in Armenian Christian worship for over 1,700 years. From ancient sharakan hymns to modern compositions, Armenian sacred music has been a vital tool for expressing faith, preserving religious traditions, and strengthening spiritual identity.

The Christianity & the Amazing Armenians: 10 Facts campaign by Khachkar Studios has shined a light on this musical heritage, reaching over 1.5 million people through print and digital media. Many who engaged with the campaign were surprised to learn that Armenian liturgical music is one of the oldest Christian musical traditions still in use today.

Armenian church music is distinct from Western Christian music in its structure and composition. Sharakan (sacred hymns) are a central feature of Armenian liturgical worship and date back to the early centuries of Christianity. Unlike Gregorian chants, which evolved in the West, sharakan follows a unique system of modal melodies, creating a deeply meditative and spiritual experience for worshippers.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Armenian Christian music is its ability to endure. Despite historical challenges, including the Armenian Genocide and the diaspora that followed, Armenian churches around the world have preserved these hymns, ensuring that they continue to be sung in worship services today.

Beyond church settings, Armenian sacred music has also influenced classical and contemporary composers. The renowned Armenian composer Komitas, for example, dedicated his life to collecting and preserving ancient Armenian church hymns. His work ensured that these melodies would not be lost to history and that future generations could experience their beauty.

Many individuals who learned about Armenian Christian music through the 10 Facts campaign expressed a desire to explore this sacred tradition further. One supporter remarked, “I had never heard Armenian Christian music before, but after listening to a few recordings, I was moved by its depth and spirituality.”

Khachkar Studios is committed to making Armenian Christian music more widely known, with plans to feature more digital content showcasing traditional hymns and their historical significance. By promoting awareness of this sacred tradition, they hope to encourage appreciation for the role of music in strengthening faith and preserving Christian heritage.

For more information, visit www.khachkarstudios.com.