MUSICAL NARRATIVES OF RESISTANCE: ARMENIAN REVOLUTIONARY SONGS IN THE ARMENIAN YOUTH FEDERATION OF WASHINGTON, D.C.

Abstract

This thesis explores the role of Armenian revolutionary songs among Armenian youth in the diaspora, focusing on interpretations of these songs by members of the Armenian Youth Federation Washington, D.C. “Ani” Chapter. I demonstrate how these songs have been transformed over the years on the frontlines of the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh War by volunteersoldier and musician Arthur Khachents, through rock renditions by the Adana Project, and during protests led by Armenian youth in D.C. to commemorate the 108th anniversary of the Armenian genocide. I specifically focus on “Gini Lits” (“Pour the Wine”) and “Zartir Lao” (“Awake My Son”) and how contemporary renditions are adapted to current circumstances of war and political upheaval in Armenia and Artsakh.