Makar Grigori Yekmalyan was born on September 2, 1856, in the historic city of Vagharshapat, also known as Etchmiadzin, the spiritual center of Armenia. Coming from a family deeply rooted in Armenian culture and traditions, Yekmalyan was immersed in the rich tapestry of Armenian heritage from a young age. His father, Grigor, was a respected member of the community, and his family’s devout faith played a significant role in shaping his future pursuits in liturgical music.
Education and Musical Formation:
Yekmalyan’s early education began at the Gevorkian Theological Seminary in Etchmiadzin, where he was first introduced to the sacred hymns and chants of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Recognizing his exceptional musical talents, his mentors encouraged him to pursue formal music studies. In 1872, he moved to Tbilisi, Georgia, a vibrant cultural hub for Armenians within the Russian Empire. There, he enrolled in the Tbilisi Theological Seminary, continuing his theological and musical education.
Eager to refine his craft, Yekmalyan aspired to study in Russia. In 1875, he was accepted into the prestigious Saint Petersburg Conservatory, one of the leading music institutions of the time. At the conservatory, he became a pupil of Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov, a luminary in Russian classical music known for his expertise in orchestration and composition. Under Rimsky-Korsakov’s tutelage, Yekmalyan delved deep into Western classical music theory, harmony, and composition techniques. His exposure to the works of Western composers broadened his musical perspective and equipped him with the skills to innovate within his own cultural context.
Return to the Caucasus and Teaching Career:
After graduating in 1879, Yekmalyan returned to Tbilisi, driven by a passion to enrich Armenian music. He began teaching at the Nersisian School, a renowned Armenian educational institution. As a teacher, he was dedicated to nurturing young talent and fostering a sense of national identity through music education. His students included future prominent figures in Armenian music, and his influence extended beyond the classroom through public lectures and musical demonstrations.
The “Armenian Divine Liturgy” (Badarak):
Yekmalyan’s most monumental work is the “Armenian Divine Liturgy”, published in 1896. Prior to his efforts, the liturgical music of the Armenian Church was primarily transmitted orally and lacked standardized notation. Yekmalyan undertook the ambitious project of harmonizing the traditional monophonic chants, arranging them for choir with Western harmonic techniques. His adaptation preserved the original melodies’ spiritual essence while enhancing their emotional and aesthetic appeal through rich harmonic textures.
The “Badarak” was met with acclaim and quickly became integral to Armenian worship services. Its significance lies not only in its musical innovation but also in its role in unifying Armenian communities through a shared liturgical repertoire. The work facilitated the spread of Armenian sacred music beyond the Caucasus, reaching diaspora communities worldwide.
Collaboration and Influence:
Yekmalyan’s work caught the attention of Komitas Vardapet (Soghomon Soghomonian), a fellow pioneer in Armenian music. In 1891, Komitas sought Yekmalyan’s guidance in Tbilisi. The mentorship between the two composers was profound; Yekmalyan introduced Komitas to advanced music theory and composition techniques. Their collaboration was instrumental in Komitas’s development, who later became a key figure in collecting and systematizing Armenian folk music.
Other Compositions and Musical Activities:
Beyond his liturgical work, Yekmalyan composed a variety of secular pieces, including:
- Choral Works: He arranged several Armenian folk songs for choir, infusing them with Western harmonies while maintaining their authentic character.
- Art Songs: Yekmalyan composed songs for voice and piano, setting to music the poetry of prominent Armenian poets, thereby contributing to the art song genre in Armenian music.
- Instrumental Pieces: Though fewer in number, his instrumental works showcased his versatility and command of orchestration.
Yekmalyan was also active as a conductor and organizer of musical events. He led choral ensembles and orchestras, often premiering his compositions and those of his contemporaries. His concerts were significant cultural events that promoted Armenian music and fostered a sense of national pride.
Advocacy for Armenian Music:
Understanding the importance of preserving Armenian musical heritage, Yekmalyan was a vocal advocate for the collection and study of Armenian folk music. He encouraged his students and colleagues to document traditional songs and dances, recognizing that modernization should not come at the expense of losing one’s cultural roots.
Death and Posthumous Recognition:
Makar Yekmalyan passed away on March 7, 1905, in Tbilisi. His death was mourned by the Armenian community and the broader musical world. Posthumously, his contributions received increased recognition:
- Memorials and Tributes: Various concerts and events were held in his honor, celebrating his life and work.
- Influence on Education: His methodologies and compositions became part of the curriculum in Armenian music schools.
- Preservation of Works: Efforts were made to publish and disseminate his lesser-known compositions, ensuring his legacy would endure.
Legacy:
Yekmalyan is remembered as a visionary who bridged the sacred traditions of Armenian music with contemporary Western practices. His approach set a precedent for future generations, demonstrating that cultural preservation and innovation could coexist harmoniously.
His “Armenian Divine Liturgy” remains a testament to his genius, performed in churches and concert halls, resonating with audiences for its profound spirituality and artistic beauty. Musicians and scholars continue to study his works, drawing inspiration from his ability to encapsulate the Armenian spirit in his music.
Makar Yekmalyan’s life reflects the journey of a composer deeply connected to his heritage yet open to the broader currents of musical thought. His dedication not only enriched Armenian liturgical music but also strengthened the cultural identity of his people during a pivotal time in their history. Through his compositions, teachings, and advocacy, Yekmalyan ensured that Armenian music would not only survive but flourish in the modern era.