Photo:
Tigran Arakelyan. Photo: Will Austin
Tigran Arakelyan’s family moved to the U.S. when he was 11 years old; it was the third country he had lived in, and English was his third language. Amidst all that change and newness, Arakelyan says, “Music was a place that made me feel comfortable. Even though I didn’t know the language, I was able to communicate with my peers through music.”
Today, Arakelyan is the executive director of Music Works Northwest, a nonprofit community music school that has been operating for 60 years. Music Works offers a variety of lessons and programs, including music therapy, and specializes in working with children, teens and adults who identify as neurodivergent or disabled. Music Works offers inclusive camps that allow students of all abilities to learn and grow together.
“Throughout our lives, we will work and interact with people of all abilities and backgrounds,” says Arakelyan. “The inclusive camps give students a small opportunity to do just that. Most importantly, it is our duty to create a space where all students can learn and grow.”
Arakelyan believes that musical experiences lead to important life lessons and skills. “Discipline, listening, collaboration, creativity and confidence are just a few of the important qualities you gain and can naturally apply to other areas of life and work,” he says.
In our modern world, which often seems to offer instantaneous results, Arakelyan encourages folks to slow down and realize that, like many things in life, learning music takes time. “The more effort you put into lessons, group classes and practice at home, the more you will gain from it. The earlier we learn that … the better we will become at developing the patience needed to achieve results in other areas of our life.”
Community is an important aspect of Arakelyan’s life and work. He encourages folks to reach out to Music Works if they (or someone they know) are interested in lessons, have an idea for a program, or know of another organization Music Works could collaborate with. “If you have high school–aged students who need volunteer hours, especially during the summer,” he says, “have them reach out to help with our many summer camps.” Thanks to Arakelyan’s passion and leadership, there is a place for everyone at Music Works Northwest.
What book or podcast are you recommending right now?“The Boys in the Boat” is a fantastic book that I highly recommend. It tells the true story of the University of Washington rowing team that won the gold medal at the 1936 Olympics. Through this book, you will learn about perseverance, leadership, courage and determination. Who is your personal hero?My wife and kids are my personal heroes. What daily habit or small routine is most important to you?Before I leave the house, I always give my kids and wife a hug and a kiss. |
