Meaning: Alan Hovhaness, an American composer of Armenian and Scottish descent, expressed in this quote a deep connection to his Armenian heritage and culture. Born in 1911 in Massachusetts, Hovhaness was exposed to his Armenian roots through his father, who was an Armenian Christian and a composer of Armenian music. Throughout his life and career, Hovhaness drew inspiration from his heritage, incorporating elements of Armenian music, spirituality, and folklore into his compositions.

Growing up in a multicultural environment, Hovhaness was influenced by various musical traditions, including Western classical music, Indian classical music, and the music of the Middle East. However, it was his Armenian heritage that resonated most profoundly with him. In his quote, Hovhaness reflects on the gradual realization of the profound influence that Armenian culture had on his emotional and creative identity. Despite initially being unaware of the depth of this connection, he acknowledges that it was present from the beginning and grew stronger as he matured.

Hovhaness' music often reflects the spiritual and emotional depth of Armenian culture. He was particularly drawn to the mystical and contemplative aspects of Armenian spirituality, which is reflected in the meditative quality of many of his compositions. The influence of Armenian folk music is also evident in his use of modal scales, intricate rhythms, and melodic ornamentation, which add a distinct flavor to his works.

One of Hovhaness' most famous compositions, "Mysterious Mountain," exemplifies his deep connection to Armenian culture. Inspired by the natural beauty of the Armenian landscape and the spiritual aura of Mount St. Helens in Washington State, the piece captures a sense of awe and reverence, reflecting Hovhaness' spiritual and emotional affinity with his Armenian roots.

In addition to his musical compositions, Hovhaness also expressed his connection to Armenian culture through his writings. He often spoke about the importance of tapping into one's cultural heritage as a source of artistic inspiration and emotional grounding. His words and works have served as a testament to the enduring impact of Armenian culture on his artistic and personal identity.

Furthermore, Hovhaness' quote sheds light on the universal experience of individuals discovering and embracing their cultural heritage. It speaks to the power of cultural identity in shaping one's emotional and creative expression, regardless of initial awareness or understanding. Hovhaness' journey of deepening his connection to his Armenian heritage serves as a reminder of the richness and significance of cultural roots in shaping individual identity and artistic output.

In conclusion, Alan Hovhaness' quote reflects his profound connection to Armenian culture and the profound influence it had on his emotional and creative identity. His exploration of his Armenian heritage and incorporation of its musical and spiritual elements into his compositions demonstrate the enduring impact of cultural roots on artistic expression. Through his words and works, Hovhaness exemplifies the transformative power of embracing one's cultural heritage and the profound emotional resonance it can evoke.