Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Born and raised in Damascus, Syria, Joseph Terterian exhibited a passion for music from a tender age. By four, he was already captivated by melodies, and at six, he commenced violin lessons at the Sulhi Al Wadi conservatory. This early immersion laid the foundation for his musical journey. His dedication led him to the High Institute of Music and Performing Arts in Damascus, where he specialized in opera singing under the mentorship of esteemed instructors Rasha Rizk, Lubana Qintar, and Arax Tchekidjian.
Debut and Diverse Musical Endeavors
In 2008, Joseph made a significant mark by debuting at the Syrian Opera House, portraying Ormonte in the Baroque opera “Zenobia” during Damascus’s celebration as the Arab Cultural City. This performance opened doors to a myriad of musical ventures. From collaborating with rock bands and Latin ensembles to accompanying renowned artists like Marcel Khalife and Charbel Rouhana, Joseph showcased his versatility. Notably, he performed the tenor part in Mozart’s Requiem and contributed to theme songs for Syrian TV dramas, including “Al Miftah.”
International Exposure and Recognition
Joseph’s talents transcended borders. In 2013, he participated in the international musical “2050: The Future We Want” in Geneva, Switzerland, broadening his global footprint. His charisma and vocal prowess earned him a spot on the primetime TV show “Arabs Got Talent,” where he captivated all four celebrity judges.
Musical Releases and Collaborations
Demonstrating his linguistic and musical adaptability, Joseph released his first Arabic single, “Shou Bitzakkar,” followed by the English track “Beautiful Mystery” in 2019. The latter achieved remarkable success, reaching #1 on iTunes UAE upon its release. Collaborations further enriched his portfolio; teaming up with Saudi star Aseel Omran, they produced an Arabic rendition of Ed Sheeran’s “Perfect,” blending Western melodies with Arabic lyrics.
Settling in the UAE and Recent Pursuits
Since 2015, Joseph has called the United Arab Emirates home. In Dubai, he holds an opera residency at Palazzo Versace and has been a resident singer for a Broadway musical-themed night at Leo V. Fulfilling childhood dreams, he paid tribute to his idol, Luciano Pavarotti, at the Dubai premiere of Pavarotti’s movie and joined Andrea Bocelli’s choir during the Winter at Tantora Festival in Al Ula.
Artistic Philosophy and Inspirations
Joseph’s musical journey is deeply influenced by legendary figures. He holds Luciano Pavarotti in high regard, admiring his effortless high notes and impeccable technique. This admiration fuels Joseph’s commitment to refining his craft and delivering emotive performances that resonate with audiences.
Current Endeavors and Future Aspirations
Continuing to push musical boundaries, Joseph remains active in the performance circuit. He regularly graces the stage at Palazzo Versace Dubai and engages in various musical projects that bridge genres and cultures. His dedication to his art and desire to connect with audiences worldwide drive his ongoing pursuits.
A Testament to Passion and Perseverance
Joseph Terterian’s journey from the streets of Damascus to the vibrant music scene of Dubai exemplifies the power of passion, resilience, and adaptability. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring musicians, illustrating that with dedication and an open heart, one can transcend boundaries and make a lasting impact in the world of music. Do follow him on Instagram.
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