The Arax Armenian Dance Ensemble

The Arax Armenian Dance Ensemble, named after the Arax River in historic Armenia, presents traditional Armenian folk dances as well as dances choreographed from traditional Armenian steps. Since 2005, the ensemble has performed at numerous festivals and private events throughout the greater Washington, D.C. area. The Arax Armenian Dance Ensemble repertoire includes unique line and circle dances, graceful women's improvisations featuring delicate arm and hand movements, and forceful and energetic male dances. Traditionally, music and dance accompanied everything from family celebrations to fieldwork. Like much Eastern music, Armenian music is modal, based on un-tempered scales instead of octaves. Armenian dance music also features unusual rhythms such as 5/4 and 9/8. This performance took place on January 20, 2013 as part of the Out of Many multicultural festival of music, dance, and story.