Ara Malikian

On 13 March 2026, Le Summum Grenoble will host Ara Malikian. A violinist of Armenian origin, he has forged a distinctive career straddling the classical repertoire and freer musical territory. As concertmaster of the Royal Symphony Orchestra of Madrid, he composes and arranges, bringing the great pages of the classical canon into dialogue with gypsy colours, Arabic influences and a pronounced taste for rock. With Intruso he continues this blend, crossing finely wrought themes, improvisation and rhythms drawn from world music, while slipping in nods to Jimi Hendrix, Guns N' Roses and Björk. The violin takes the lead, at once lyrical, percussive and edgy.

On stage, Malikian strings together original pieces and reimagined covers, moving from the intimate to the expansive with the precision of a chamber musician, and plays with contrasts without losing the melodic thread. His approach emphasizes listening and the circulation of energy, balancing discipline and freedom. An evening conceived for those who enjoy seeing the violin step out of its usual role, between tradition and controlled departures.