The Vanadzor Art School, originally named Music School #3, was founded by composer and musician Eduard Kzartumian in 1969. The first principal of the school was Seda Ghazarian.

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During the Soviet period, classical music was very popular in Armenia and specifically in Vanadzor, and many parents wanted their children to have a classical musical education. Many young and dedicated teachers worked at the School to provide a high quality musical education to their students.

In 1980 the School was moved to a new building. While this new facility contained many large, comfortable and light classrooms, it did not have a concert hall. Nerses Etimian served as Principal of the School during this period.

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Following the devastating Spitak Earthquake of 1988, that left more than 100,000 people homeless and took the lives of more than 25,000, the School was left in ruins. Whatever equipment could be salvaged from the devastation was moved into temporary oversees shipping containers that were crudely converted into classrooms. For 15 years, the staff and students operated under these most difficult conditions. Khachik Movsesian served as the Principal during these most trying years.

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In 2003, The Vanadzor Art School was identified by the All Armenia Fund for reconstruction. In a partnering agreement, the Armenian community of San Francisco, California agreed to raise the funds necessary to rebuild and outfit the school. Proceeds from the opening night performance and Gala Banquet of the Arshak II Opera, which was performed by the San Franciso Opera, were dedicated to this project. As a result of this effort, the Vanadzor Art School was successfully rebuilt, furnished and many new musical instruments were purchased. Following its reconstruction, the School was officially renamed the Tigran Chukhajian Art School.

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In 2006, Gohar Israelyan became the Principal of the Vanadzor Art School. Under her leadership, the School continues to offer high quality education in a high quality environment to more than 250 students. The School continues to enjoy the support of the Arshak II Opera fund, which is now partnered with the Paros Foundation to provide funds for the upkeep and maintenance of the School and some scholarships for tuition based on both need and achievement.