The Tigran Chukhajyan Art school (formerly Vanadzor Music School #3) was established in 1969 through the efforts of Eduard Kzartmian. Originally it was located on the ground floor of a residential building and had a total of seven classrooms. The school eventually became one of the best in the Lori Region of Armenia and began attracting more and more students every year. In 1984 the school was relocated to a larger building and underwent major reconstruction to accommodate 500 students. It was transformed into an exemplary academic facility with large classrooms and auditoriums.

The 1988 Gyumri earthquake seriously damaged the school and students had to relocate to a temporary location. The make-shift building did not have proper heating or lighting. Leaks from the roof resulted in further deterioration of the building. The musical instruments were damaged because of water the lack of proper storage facilities. Only 26 pianos, 1 violin and 2 cellos were able to be used at the Vanadzor Musical School. However, despite all these difficulties students continued their classes and participated in regional music competitions receiving awards.

In September of 2001 Armenia Fund Inc. adopted the Vanadzor School project through a joint financing agreement with the Arshak II Opera Committee. Both the Arshak II Opera Committee and Armenia Fund Inc. acknowledged the significance of this joint mission to fund the reconstruction and the refurnishing of the school.

On September 8, 2001 the Arshak II Opera Committee held a sold-out Gala and allocated proceeds to the reconstruction of the School. The Gala proceeds of approximately $250,000 were partially used in the joint efforts for the reconstruction of the School and the rest for the future maintenance. The funds were also used to purchase critically needed musical instruments, student aid, and teacher compensation.

The Paros Foundation maintains regular communication with the School and its staff to assist the San Francisco Armenian-American community with issues related to the School and its operation.

Tigran Chukhajyan Art school
Aghayan 86/a
Vanadzor

Phone: (00374) 322-48027