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This year, the “Music for Future” Foundation celebrates its fifth anniversary. Founded by Sergey Smbatyan, the Artistic Director and Chief Conductor of the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra, the project aims to support and develop young Armenian musicians, helping them reach international heights in the world of art. In an interview with STYLE.NEWS.am, Sergey Smbatyan, who also serves as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Foundation, discussed its main achievements, the challenges faced by modern musicians, and the importance of new technologies in the music world.

The “Music for Future” Foundation was established to support talented young musicians in Armenia. Over the past five years, it has helped dozens of children gain access to masterclasses, educational programs, and opportunities to perform on world stages. As Sergey Smbatyan noted, “The main goal of the Foundation is to create a clear direction and form a dedicated team for continuous work with children, ensuring they are prepared for the modern challenges of the music world.”

In five years, the Foundation has conducted more than 286 masterclasses featuring international musicians and professors, organized 233 concerts, and facilitated numerous cultural events, such as museum visits and foreign language lessons.

Integration into the 21st Century: The Foundation’s Key Goal

According to Smbatyan, one of the key issues is to integrate children into the 21st century while preserving their roots and traditions. According to the Maestro, musicians should embrace modernity and technological advancements while maintaining their cultural heritage.

“We may be missing the point that our children are not fully integrated into the 21st century. Our idea was for the team to work with children around the clock, helping them adapt to new conditions while preserving their Armenian identity. This involves communication through language—our first and foremost priority. We succeeded, as the children learned and mastered their craft, understanding that in the 21st century, a musician must be skilled enough to succeed even without knowing the language. We do not want to dictate the future of these children; instead, we aim to help them develop. The goal is for them to study with the best international mentors and participate in prestigious masterclasses. We are proud that the children leaving Armenia continue to pass on their identity and cultural heritage.”

The foundation's success is reflected in the entry of its children into the international arena

To define success correctly, it is essential to recognize that it lies not only in achieving specific goals or winning competitions but also in a long process that encompasses growth, development, and the ability to overcome challenges.

"I can say that our success lies in the fact that children have the opportunity to study with the best teachers. Armenia is a country that can actively participate in the global cultural events. We see new stars emerging in cities like New York, London, Berlin, and Vienna. Children find themselves in an environment with access to information and cultural exchange. We face challenges, but we have a clear vision. Over the past five years, we have established a system that helps children shape their futures and understand their aspirations and contributions. We strive to ensure that classical music remains a vital part of our cultural heritage, and this is a strategic issue for us."

Overcoming Difficulties: Challenges for Young Musicians

One of the primary challenges faced by young musicians in Armenia is limited access to professional teachers, especially outside the capital. Many children from smaller towns struggle to find mentors who can help them develop their talent.

"Young musicians living in small towns often find it challenging to locate teachers they wish to study with, particularly outside Armenia. This is a significant problem, as these talented and dedicated individuals lack opportunities for development,” Smbatyan notes with regret. However, the Foundation is committed to overcoming this challenge by providing participants with access to the best teachers and educational trips abroad”.

New Technologies and Artificial Intelligence: The Future of the Music Industry

In today's world, new technologies, including artificial intelligence, are increasingly integrated into the music industry. Sergey Smbatyan believes that these technologies can serve as valuable tools for musicians, particularly in the realms of learning and creative development.

“Artificial intelligence is already beginning to assist in the music industry, especially in musical pieces. However, the crucial question remains whether it can truly replace human creativity. For now, it is a tool that simplifies our lives. If we use it correctly, it can help children better understand their desires. We use technology to make life easier. For instance, today we can quickly discover what is happening in the music world and listen to great pieces directly from our phones.Artificial intelligence simplifies processes, and if used effectively, it can be a valuable tool for children”.

Armenia in the Global Music Arena

One of the key achievements of the Foundation over the past five years has been the recognition of Armenian musicians on the international stage. Children trained by the Foundation have performed at prestigious venues and participated in international festivals.

“For example, if we consider the city of Los Angeles, where we have many friends and acquaintances, few associate it with musical culture as much as our children and performers do, despite the presence of many musical groups in the city. In June, the Symphony Orchestra held a concert, and the children showcased their talents on a world stage. This reflects the high caliber of our children and our art. We consistently emphasize the significance of our cultural identity on a global scale. Our successes on the international stage are a source of pride. Our culture matters, and we will continue our efforts to be recognized within the global music community,” the conductor proudly shares. Thanks to the Foundation's initiatives, Armenia is becoming increasingly visible on the global musical map. Today, many renowned musicians and teachers recognize the talent of Armenian children, highlighting their uniqueness and high level of training.

The 'Music for Future' Foundation not only nurtures musical talents but also helps young Armenian musicians gain confidence on the world stage. Over the past five years, the Foundation has opened many doors for young artists, and this is just the beginning. According to Sergey Smbatyan, with ongoing support and investment in the next generation of musicians, Armenia will continue to strengthen its position in the international music arena.

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