We recently connected with Deren Bratian and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Deren, thanks for joining us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

Among the many meaningful projects I’ve been part of, recent experiences stand out as especially transformative. My world truly opened up when I began working on the contemporary piece Ave Verum Corpus by the young Armenian composer Manne Von M. This project became more than just a performance—it became a turning point in my artistic journey. Ave Verum Corpus, a duet for piano and voice, awakened something deeply personal in me. I remember the moment I met the composer—she handed me the score, and I was immediately drawn to it. Even before touching the keys, I found myself playing it in the air, and I immediately got into this piece. It reshaped how I understand music, connection, and the power of contemporary expression. I have managed to perform this work live at concerts. I am grateful to my professor Zaruhi Ghazaryan, who worked with me on this project. Following that, I recorded ‘’Kroonk’’ by Komitas, arranged by Sarajev—a piece that resonates deeply with my inner self. Every note, every emotion I conveyed came straight from the heart. It was my own decision to perform this work, supported by my professors at the Conservatory. I’m especially grateful to my professor Marine Margaryan. Behind every recording lies dedication, emotion, and hard work. Komitas holds a special place in my repertoire. I connect with Komitas music deeply, both as an Armenian and as an artist. That’s why several of his works are also featured in my new album, Lux Aeterna. This album contains my arrangements of many Armenian melodies. I have chosen the works to be performed myself and I am preparing to present this album of mine very soon. I will also present my original work, which is called ‘’ Crazy March’’. I was born in the crazy month of March, and I encapsulated myself in this music.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Deren Bratian is a promising young Armenian classical pianist, born in Tehran, Iran. Though still a student, he has already distinguished himself through awards, performances, and recording projects, and continues to cultivate his artistic vision with dedication and innovation. Deren began studying piano in childhood and quickly showed exceptional talent. He won first prize at the 40th Arts and Culture Festival in Tehran and was also honored with the top award from the Tehran Academy of Arts. In addition, he earned first place in the Kusha Center’s Best Performers Competition, further establishing his reputation as a rising talent in the classical music scene. His repertoire spans a wide range of styles and periods, reflecting his commitment to artistic versatility and exploration. Refusing to limit himself to any one genre or tradition, Deren continues to develop his craft and expand his musical language. In recent years, he has appeared in premieres, public performances, and interviews, actively contributing to the cultural conversation around contemporary classical music. With a growing body of work and a deep passion for his art, Deren Bratian is steadily emerging as a noteworthy voice in the next generation of classical pianists. His goal is to change the world for the better, and this should be done through music, of course.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, being an artist means constantly exploring my inner world—feeling, observing, and understanding both myself and the world around me. As a pianist, I interpret life and its many dimensions through music. Each piece I perform becomes a journey—into emotion, into the hidden corners of nature, into the depths of imagination. Through sound, I give shape to these experiences and translate them into something others can feel. Art is the most powerful weapon to change the world

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

My biggest inspiration is the era of Romanticism. I cannot fail to mention Rachmaninov’s Second Piano Concerto, which when I listen to it, I am filled with indescribable feelings, new motivation, and every time I relive the composer’s state of mind. My sources of inspiration are, as I mentioned in the previous question, Komitas, Armenian music, and next to them I must also add European composers, which are Chopin and Bach. I think that Bach is a greatness that can be explored endlessly.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deren1383?igsh=MWN1YXRpcHpqOW05OQ==
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1G7Kun13q1/
• Linkedin: https://ir.linkedin.com/in/deren-barati-a297b3283
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@derenbratian?si=QMibm5518QATteBj