Violinist-violist Ara Gregorian takes up role at New England Conservatory

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New England Conservatory (NEC) has announced violinist-violist Ara Gregorian as its new chair of string and piano chamber music beginning in the autumn of 2024. 

As chair, Gregorian will provide artistic and administrative direction for the programme, as well as mentorship to prepare students to lead impactful lives in music.

’I am honoured to join the faculty at New England Conservatory, and look forward to collaborating with the students, my colleagues, and all across the NEC community to continue NEC’s tradition of chamber music excellence,’ Gregorian said.

As founder and artistic director of the Four Seasons Chamber Music Festival and distinguished professor in music at East Carolina University, Gregorian brings a wealth of experience coaching chamber music ensembles and individual artists.

’I am thrilled to announce the appointment of Ara Gregorian as the chair of string and piano chamber music,’ said NEC provost Benjamin Sosland. ’His unwavering commitment to working with aspiring chamber musicians and his profound understanding of music education ensures he will serve as an exemplary leader, guiding our program to new levels of success and inspiring future generations of musicians.’

’Ara’s exceptional virtuosity as both a soloist and chamber music performer, coupled with his visionary leadership, has created a dynamic platform for collaboration among faculty and students. His appointment promises to continue the esteemed tradition of NEC’s Chamber Music,’ stated interim co-chairs Nicholas Kitchen and Yeesun Kim.

Gregorian made his New York recital debut in Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall and his debut as soloist with the Boston Pops Orchestra in Symphony Hall. He has performed at New York’s Carnegie Hall, Avery Fisher Hall, Alice Tully Hall, Washington D.C.’s Kennedy Center and in major metropolitan cities throughout the world.

He is a member of the Cooperstown Quartet, has performed extensively with Concertante and the Daedalus Quartet, and has recorded for National Public Radio, New York’s WQXR, and the Bridge and Kleos labels.

Gregorian performs on a Francesco Ruggeri violin from 1690 and a Grubaugh and Seifert viola from 2006.

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