We are pleased to announce the winner of the Composer Competition 2025 – Ralph Keuchkerian.
As the winner, Ralph has been awarded a commission contract to compose three works, with a royalty fee of AMD 600,000.
Ralph Keuchkerian, a composer and conductor currently based in Yerevan, Armenia, began his musical journey at the age of four. Recognizing his passion, his father introduced him to piano lessons, which led to years of dedicated practice – often up to seven hours a day – inspired by the works of Bach and Mozart.
Originally from Lebanon, Ralph faced limited opportunities for professional musical education in his home country. After two years of film studies, he pursued his true passion and moved to Armenia on the recommendation of his mentor, Garo Avessian, director of the Lebanese Philharmonic Orchestra. He was awarded a full merit scholarship at the Yerevan State Conservatory, where he continues to excel, earning top grades and receiving honors from the conservatory’s president.
During his time in Armenia, Ralph has explored minimalism in modern music, developing a unique personal style. He has organized and conducted numerous concerts, presenting both his own compositions and the works of other composers, while collaborating with international musicians throughout his studies.
In Ralph’s own words:
“I can’t imagine myself doing anything else. This is what I’ve been doing for almost all my life.”
We extend our sincere gratitude to the distinguished members of the jury for their time and expertise:
Mr. Vasily Pasetchnik – Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, Primavera Charitable Foundation Board Member
Mr. Aram Hovhannisyan – Composer, Vice-Rector on Academic Affairs at the Yerevan Komitas State Conservatory
Ms. Evgenia Zhazhelo – Composer, Singer, Sound Producer
Ralph Keuchkerian’s new work will premiere live on stage on July 10, 2025. The performance will be professionally recorded.