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Lévon Minassian is a renowned Armenian duduk player and composer who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born on August 26, 1959, in Beirut, Lebanon, Minassian grew up in a family of musicians. His father, Hovhannes Minassian, was a famous Armenian composer and conductor, and his mother, Arpineh Minassian, was a talented pianist. From a young age, Minassian was exposed to the world of music and began playing the duduk, a traditional Armenian woodwind instrument, at the age of six. Minassian's family moved to Armenia in 1972, where he continued his musical education at the Komitas State Conservatory in Yerevan. He studied under the tutelage of renowned duduk player and composer, Djivan Gasparyan, who is widely regarded as the master of the duduk. Under Gasparyan's guidance, Minassian honed his skills and developed a deep understanding of the instrument's nuances and complexities. In 1981, Minassian joined the Armenian State Philharmonic Orchestra as a soloist, where he performed extensively throughout Armenia and internationally. He also collaborated with various musicians and composers, including Peter Gabriel, Hans Zimmer, and Sting, among others. In 1998, Minassian released his debut album, "Songs from a World Apart," which received critical acclaim and established him as a prominent figure in the world of classical music. Over the years, Minassian has performed at numerous prestigious venues and events, including the Royal Albert Hall in London, the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, and the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland. He has also composed music for films, television, and theater productions, including the award-winning documentary "Armenia: The Betrayed," which was directed by Michael Hagopian. In addition to his musical career, Minassian is also a dedicated educator and has taught the duduk at various institutions, including the Yerevan State Conservatory and the University of California, Los Angeles. He has also conducted workshops and masterclasses around the world, sharing his knowledge and expertise with aspiring musicians. Throughout his career, Minassian has received numerous accolades and awards for his contributions to the world of classical music. In 2002, he was awarded the Medal of Honor by the President of Armenia for his outstanding achievements in the field of music. He has also been recognized by the Armenian Ministry of Culture and the Armenian National Academy of Sciences for his contributions to Armenian culture and music. Today, Minassian continues to perform, compose, and teach, inspiring a new generation of musicians and preserving the rich cultural heritage of Armenia. His passion for the duduk and his dedication to his craft have made him a beloved figure in the world of classical music, and his legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and influence generations to come.

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