Ashkharis Mej (from "Asli-Qyaram" Romance)

Tovmas Poghosyan was born in Sarchapet village of Lori region, Armenia. From 1960 to 1971 studied at Armenian school of Tbilisi, from 1971 to 1972 sang at Yerevan ashugh song ensemble named after Sayat Nova directed by Vagharshak Sahakyan, from 1972-1973-at Gevorkian Theological Seminary of Etchmiadzin, later continued studying at Pedagogical University of Vanadzor. In parallel with studies, he sang at the local state ethnographic song and dance ensemble "Horovel". Till 1980 worked as a teacher of Armenian language in Hatis village of Armenia. From 1980-1995 as a soloist sang at the song and dance ensemble of Tatul Altunian. Between 1980-1985 studied at Yerevan Komitas State Conservatory (folk instruments department). Since 1987 teaches at the Conservatory (Professor since 2004). Tovmas Poghosyan founded and directed “Gandzasar” ensemble from 1987 to 1992, since 1992 is the artistic director of “Sayat Nova” ashugh ensemble. In 1995 on the basis of the ensemble "Sayat Nova" he founded the cultural center "Sayat Nova” – ashugh school named after Jivani and the Union of Armenian ashughs. Tovmas Poghosyan is an author of many articles, “Jivani 150-unknown songs” collection, in 2009 – “Jivani 150” collection which includes more than 400 unknown song lyrics. He had concerts in different cities of Armenia, in Iran, Switzerland, Holland, Canada, France and so on. In 2014 received the degree of Doctor of Philology, in 2001 was awarded “Movses Khorenatsi” medal, in 2006 received Honored Artist of Armenia, in 2011 – People’s Artist of Armenia.