Nestled in a quiet, leafy street just a short walk from Yerevan’s bustling city center stands a cultural treasure: the Aram Khachaturian Museum. Dedicated to one of the 20th century’s greatest composers, this house-museum offers an intimate look into the life and legacy of a musical genius whose compositions continue to echo across concert halls worldwide. Recognized by UNESCO as one of the most significant composers of the modern era, Khachaturian is not only a symbol of Armenian musical excellence but a revered figure in the global arts community.
The museum is housed in a charming villa that once belonged to Khachaturian’s brother, Vaginak Khachaturian. During his visits to Yerevan, Aram often stayed here, making it a fitting place to honor his memory. After the composer’s death in 1978, the home was transformed into a museum and officially opened its doors in 1982. Today, the space retains the warmth of a lived-in family home while offering a curated journey through the life of a maestro.
Visitors are greeted by the serene beauty of a rose garden in the courtyard and a sculptural spring-fountain—a tribute to Khachaturian’s 105th birthday, gifted by architects Gurzadyan and Barsegyan. Inside, the air is filled with the melodies of Khachaturian’s works, subtly playing in the background, creating an atmosphere where time seems to pause and the spirit of music reigns.
The museum’s rich collection brings Khachaturian’s story to life through a tapestry of personal belongings and professional artifacts. From his tailcoat and conductor’s baton to letters, photographs, and handwritten manuscripts, each piece reveals a layer of the composer’s identity. Many of these items were donated by his son, Karen Khachaturian, ensuring an authentic and deeply personal archive.
A particular highlight of the collection is the composer’s library, which houses original scores, rare documents, and an ever-growing collection of classical and contemporary music records. Music enthusiasts will also appreciate the display of unique musical instruments, each with its own story.
Among these, the “Pleyel” grand piano has perhaps the most remarkable tale. During a 1957 concert tour in Brazil, Khachaturian was invited to a private gathering by San Paulo-based Armenian antiquarian Tigran Mostidjian. Eager to hear the composer perform, Mostidjian bought a piano just for the occasion. Moved by the gesture, Khachaturian played a few selections from his work and, after some persuasion, carved his signature into the piano’s surface using a nail. This storied instrument later traveled to Argentina with Mostidjian’s daughter before being donated to the museum in 1988—where it now sits as a beloved centerpiece.
Beyond its role as a place of remembrance, the Aram Khachaturian Museum is an active hub for Armenia’s cultural life. It hosts regular musical evenings, temporary exhibitions, and special events featuring prominent artists and intellectuals. One of its most notable initiatives is the biennial Khachaturian music competition, held in the chamber concert hall on site, which draws talented performers from around the world.
Address: 3, Zarobyan Str., Yerevan
Phone: (+374 10) 58-94-18
Working hours: Monday-Saturday 11:00 a.m. till 04:30 p.m.
Closed: on Sunday
