About this experience
Get acquainted with Armenian culture through its history, cuisine, crafts - and of course through dance! National dances reflect the character of the Armenian people, their traditions, and even their fate. In a dance studio in Yerevan, you will master one of the three most beautiful dances - Kochari, Gorani, or Tamzara. You will also discover their sacred meaning.
Discover Armenian Culture Through Dance!
Armenian dances originated in ancient times and over the centuries absorbed the peculiarities of Armenian thinking, religion, and their relationship to nature. Although today the original dances have taken on more modern forms, at their core are the same expressive elements that will help you delve into the essence of Armenian culture.
What to Expect
A bit of theory. The first part - a short and engaging lecture that will introduce you to the history of Armenian dance. You will learn why different dances were created, how the fate of the dance intertwines with the fate of a whole people, and how Armenian dances have changed over the centuries.
Masterclass from an ensemble soloist. Then we will move on to practice! In an hour, the teacher will help you immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Armenian culture, and teach you the basics of one of the three key and most beautiful dances of Armenia:
- Kochari - the most widespread dance, passed down to us from pagan times and formerly having a ritual significance. In 2017, Kochari was included in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List.
- Gorani - a unique dance, used to address the heavens, asking for the generosity of nature and rain.
- Tamzara - a wedding song-dance found in many Armenian settlements.
Organizational Details
- The theoretical part of the lesson lasts 15-20 minutes, and the practice - an hour and a half
- Your teacher will be a soloist from the ensemble "Druzhba" - one of the three state ensembles of Armenia. You will learn to dance either Kochari, Tamzara, or Gorani (your choice).
- The masterclass is available for participants of all ages and physical conditions
- You can get to the dance school in Yerevan on your own, or arrange a transfer for an additional fee
