Celebrated across the global Armenian diaspora as the "First Armenian Female Diva," singer, composer, pianist, and record producer Araksia Varderessian has dedicated her life to creating unforgettable melodies that linger in the hearts of listeners for generations. From the halls of the Yerevan Komitas State Conservatory and the University of Southern California (USC) to humanitarian concert stages around the world, her artistry embodies resilience, compassion, and devotion to Armenian music.
Biography: From Yerevan & USC to Global Concert Stages
Born in Yerevan, Armenia, Araksia Varderessian graduated as a classical pianist from the prestigious Yerevan Komitas State Conservatory (YSC) while simultaneously performing as a featured vocalist with the "Serpantin" youth musical ensemble. In 1976, Araksia immigrated to the United States with her family, settling in Los Angeles, where she continued her advanced classical studies majoring in piano at the University of Southern California (USC).
Launching her international concert tours in the 1980s, Araksia combined prolific studio recording with deep humanitarian service. Following the devastating 1988 Spitak earthquake in Armenia and throughout the conflict in Artsakh, she organized humanitarian relief tours—donating concert proceeds to support orphaned children and impoverished families, and traveling personally to the frontlines to encourage soldiers and communities in need.
Alongside producing and hosting her own television program for more than a decade, Araksia was honored at the 2007 Armenian Music Awards with the title of "First Armenian Female Diva," followed in 2009 by winning the Best Children's Album trophy at the Armenian Music Awards.
Featured Works & Production Credits (Vol. 7 & Vol. 8 Albums)
Araksia Varderessian never stops composing—writing her own music, crafting poetic lyrics, and performing with unmistakable vocal warmth. Three landmark productions showcase her creative range:
| Song Title | Album / Release | Creative & Video Production Credits |
|---|---|---|
| "Haskatsir" ("Please Understand Me!") | 2012 CD Album Vol. 7 | Lyrics: Sepuh Sarkisyan • Music Arrangement: Vache Ter-Yegishyan • Video Photography: Karen Sargsyan (DG Film) • Editing: Edward Danielyan • Directed by Sona Khandanyan |
| "Es Ov Indz Anitsets" | Contemporary New Arrangement | Reimagined modern orchestration blending traditional Armenian vocal phrasing with contemporary studio arrangement |
| "Te Ashxarhum Ser Chliner" ("If There Wasn't Love in the World") | New CD Album Vol. 8 | Original love ballad composed and performed by Araksia Varderessian • Music Video Directed by Nara Vard |
An Enduring Musical Legacy
Whether composing tender romantic ballads like "Te Ashxarhum Ser Chliner" (directed by Nara Vard) or uplifting educational songs for children, Araksia Varderessian creates music with a timeless message of love, dignity, and cultural continuity—cementing her place as an authentic legend of Armenian-American music.