From Salon Balconies to Big Dreams: Joseph Terterian’s Musical Rise
Music was never just a hobby for Joseph Terterian—it was his heartbeat, his identity, and the language he always felt most fluent in. From the tender age of four, he found his stage not in grand concert halls but in the modest balcony of his aunt’s hair salon in Syria. What started as innocent singing in front of an imaginary audience quickly turned into a real-life dream, thanks to a fateful encounter that would change the course of his life forever.
It was a regular day when Joseph’s mom, a hairdresser herself, asked him to come inside and sing for someone special. That “someone” turned out to be none other than Mayada Al Henawi, one of Syria’s most legendary singers. She heard Joseph’s young voice echoing from the balcony and assumed it must be a neighbor’s child. When his mother proudly said, “That’s my son,” Mayada instantly recognized the rare gift in Joseph’s voice. That moment sparked a musical journey that is still evolving today.
A Violin, A Dream, and a Conservatory
Joseph’s mother took Mayada’s words to heart and enrolled him in the music conservatory. He began studying the violin at just six years old and continued until he turned 18. Music wasn’t just something he liked—it was a world he belonged to. When it was time for higher education, Joseph didn’t hesitate. He joined the Higher Institute of Music and Performing Arts in Damascus, this time as an opera singer, determined to give his voice the training it deserved.
Even today, Joseph describes music as a force that moves his soul. “There is something inside of me that I need to let out,” he says. “I love telling stories through my voice.” For him, music isn’t about fame or recognition—it’s about creation, self-expression, and healing.
Creating His Own Sound: A Band Like No Other
Though deeply rooted in classical training, Joseph wanted to explore a unique sound. That dream came to life with the formation of his band Joseph and le Petit Orchestre. This group isn’t your average pop band—it brings a classical twist to popular music, offering something truly original to the UAE music scene.
The band features a lineup of talented international musicians: Nareg Abajian (composer/pianist), Marta Lantos (first violin), Faridde Caparo (second violin), Elena Thedvall (viola), Valeria Carvajal (cello), Stéphane Ferrault (clarinet), Bassem Al Jaber (double bass), and Satya Darcy (drums). Together, they create music that is sophisticated yet soulful, modern yet timeless.
The Turning Point: A Gift That Sparked His Professional Career
Joseph’s journey into professional singing began unexpectedly. While studying marketing, his friends gifted him a four-hour recording session for his 19th birthday. What they thought was just a fun experience turned into a life-defining moment. Joseph didn’t want the session to end, and neither did the sound engineer, who encouraged him to train his voice professionally.
Taking that advice seriously, Joseph auditioned for and was accepted into the conservatory’s opera department. It was the start of a whole new chapter—one where passion met preparation, and dreams met dedication.
Challenges in the Spotlight: The Other Side of the Stage
While Joseph’s musical career is rich in creativity and talent, it hasn’t been free of challenges. One of the biggest hurdles he faces is the marketing and exposure side of being an independent artist. Without a team or big budget, he often finds himself wearing multiple hats—creator, producer, manager, and promoter.
“Producing everything by myself is financially challenging and time-consuming,” Joseph admits. “But you have to do what you have to do because of love.”
That love fuels his persistence. It drives him to push through the difficult days and continue creating, even when the odds feel overwhelming.
Inner Conversations: A Deeply Personal Album in the Making
Currently, Joseph is working on what may be his most personal project yet—an upcoming album titled Inner Conversations. He’s collaborating with German producer Marthy Dee, and together they’ve been crafting a 12-song album that dives deep into topics many people struggle with but rarely talk about.
The songs explore themes like faith, self-worth, healing from narcissistic relationships, and finding inner peace. “These are things I’ve been through, but I know many others are dealing with them too,” he shares.
The album will be released gradually, allowing listeners to experience each chapter of his story in its own time. Joseph hopes the project resonates not just musically, but emotionally and spiritually with his audience.
Wisdom from Experience: Do It for the Passion
Joseph’s advice to aspiring musicians is both honest and heartfelt: “Do it for the passion—not for fame, attention, or validation.” In an era where social media and trends dominate the music industry, he emphasizes the importance of staying true to your art.
“When I accepted that I can’t please everyone, it gave me peace,” he says. “After all, I sing because it makes my soul happy.”
His dream is to bring back the golden era of ballads—the kind of music that showcases the power of a voice above all else. Inspired by legends like Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Andrea Bocelli, and Josh Groban, Joseph aims to revive a genre that speaks to the heart and soul.
Looking Ahead: Faith, Hope, and Musical Purpose
Joseph’s story is still being written, but one thing is clear: he’s not in it for the spotlight—he’s in it for the song. His music comes from a place of truth, vulnerability, and deep emotion. Through struggles and triumphs, he continues to chase a sound that’s bigger than trends—a sound that lasts.
His message to his younger self, and to anyone who may be struggling, is simple yet profound: “Keep going, it will all be alright. I know you’re anxious now, but you’ll make it through. Have faith in God and all will fall into place.”
You can follow Joseph’s ongoing musical journey on Instagram @Josephterterian, TikTok, and LinkedIn. His life reminds us that when you sing from the soul, the world listens.
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