Tom Bozigian Brings Traditional Armenian Dance to Classroom

Put your best foot forward, that is your right foot! Tom Bozigian, internationally recognized dance instructor, has the ability to make that saying come alive. On the evening of January 31, 2003 and all day February 1, 2003, people interested in Armenian traditional dance gathered at the South Gymnasium of Fresno State to familiarize themselves with their favorite dance techniques.
More than sixty eager dance students took the weekend course, Armenian Studies 120T-Armenian Dance, organized by Barlow Der Mugrdechian of the Armenian Studies Program and taught by Tom Bozigian.

As a young boy around the age of eight, Tom Bozigian belonged to an Armenian folkdance program, which was introduced to him by his cousins. In addition to the encouragement of his cousins, he was also influenced by his grandparents who danced around the house which he observed with curiousity. He continued exploring his interest, which eventually led him to a school in Los Angeles in 1968. He also took part in the Armenian State Choreographic School where he trained with a classical ballet.

Today, Mr. Bozigian spends his time teaching eager and curious students at the Marie Manoogian dance studio in Los Angeles. Another activity he takes part in is traveling around the world to display the Armenian legacy and promote the culture.

One of the most memorable places he has been to is Japan. There, he especially took notice of the rapid learning abilities of the students, as well as their enthusiasm and retention of the dances taught. Another motivating experience occurred in Germany, where the students were not only interested in acquiring the dance skills, but they were also quite concerned with the historical facts of the culture. This coming May, Mr. Bozigian will visit Armenia, as he does frequently, in order to learn new dances from small villages.
As part of his travels, Bozigian, a graduate of Fresno State, annually visits Fresno to teach a one-unit, one weekend long Armenian dance class.

He began the class by teaching simple Armenian dances. One of these dances, Yerek Meg (Three and One) was especially favored among the students, because it was considered the easiest to learn. This particular dance was created during the later 1950’s by the California Armenian Church Youth Organization members to introduce at a state convention along with Sayat Nova, Tsatkeh and Heeng oo Meg. In addition to teaching dances, Mr. Bozigian also creates dances, one of which is Siroon Aghcheek (Sweet Girl), which he introduced for the first time in the 1950’s at the ACYO Convention.
So, what exactly is Mr. Bozigian’s motivation to return to Fresno and teach these dances? Well, his goal is to pass on, as well as preserve, traditional dances of Armenia. Also, he portrays through the dances his pride in the culture and desire to promote the history of the Armenian people. Besides having more students show up this year, there was an increase in enthusiasm, excitement, and the ability to grasp the dances, which was demonstrated through the students practicing during their breaks. Mr. Bozigian commented, “There are better dancers this year and they are obviously more serious about learning.”

As mentioned before, there were several non-Armenians participating in the class and Mr. Bozigian loves to have them there, “We need to have them [non-Armenians] in here. They’ll spread the word and hopefully more people will take interest in the Armenian Studies Program.”

Anthony Creek, whose grandfather is Armenian, pointed out, “This class not only helped me learn new dance techniques, but it also made me a better dancer.”
Learning the dance steps is easier said than done, becuase it tales a lot of hard work, yet it was extremely satisfying. “This was a great opportunity to meet other Armenian students and have fun dancing,” remarked Narine Goukasian.

As for Tom Bozigian’s expectations for next year, he hopes people would return and in the meantime use the dances taught in their social lives. “It’s great to see Mr. Bozigian carrying on our traditions and keeping our culture alive,” stated Dikran Chekian.