Armen Tigranian, also known as Tigranyan or Dikranian, was a prominent Armenian composer and conductor born on December 26, 1879, in Alexandropol, now Gyumri, Armenia. He passed away on February 10, 1950, in Tbilisi. Tigranian was a pivotal figure in Armenian music, known for his contributions as a composer, conductor, and sociocultural activist.

Tigranian's musical journey began at an early age, influenced by the rich musical traditions of Shirak and Armenian folk music. In 1894, he moved to Tbilisi, where he enrolled in the local music school, mastering the flute and studying composition under Makar Yekmalyan. After completing his education in 1902, he returned to Alexandropol to teach and compose music, organizing choirs and touring various cities to promote Armenian music.

His most celebrated work, the opera "Anoush," based on Hovhannes Tumanian's story, premiered in 1912 in Alexandropol. This opera is considered the "national opera of the Armenian people" and is noted for its national style and folk elements. Tigranian revised "Anoush" to align with Soviet aesthetics, and it was performed in Yerevan in 1935 and in Moscow in 1939.

Tigranian's second opera, "David Bek," inspired by the history of the Karabakh Melikdoms, was completed in 1949 and premiered posthumously in 1950. His other notable works include the drama "Leily and Mejnun," symphonic pieces, and numerous songs and choral works.

Throughout his career, Tigranian was active in the Armenian Music Society and contributed significantly to the cultural life in Tbilisi. He was honored as an Art Worker of the Armenian and Georgian Soviet Socialist Republics and received the Lenin Order for his contributions to music. His legacy is commemorated with streets and music schools named after him, a monument in Yerevan, and a house-museum in Gyumri.