Arthur Meschian

Arthur Meschian, born March 3, 1949 in Yerevan, is a rock musician, singer, composer, artist and architect. He is also known as one of the founders of Armenian rock. He is the co-author of different architectural projects, including Zvartnots Airport and the new building of Matenadaran in Armenia. Meschian was the leader of the "Apostles" (Arakyalner), an Armenian underground rock-band in the 1960-70's that become the "voice of the generation" during the period of stagnation and Soviet censure. Three students of the Yerevan State Politechnic Institute were singing about pain and sorrow (they used the lyrics written by Moushegh Ishkhan and Meschian). General themes in the songs included the philosophy of life's meaning, pain and mercy or joy and pride. In 1976 "Apostles" were banned by Soviet censorship, by the end of the 80's, the "iron curtain" fell and Meschian moved to the United States with his family. He formed the "Arakyalner-90" band and recorded four studio albums featuring both old works from "Apostles" and new songs. In 2005, Arthur Meschian permanently moved back to Yerevan, where he now works as an architect. He gave a number of concerts throughout Armenia in 2005 and 2006.