
Arman Ayva – Montreal Indie Jazz Composer 🎷
Where modern jazz meets cinematic storytelling. Arman Ayva is a Montreal-based indie jazz composer whose sound merges the soul of classic jazz with the freedom of funk, cinematic energy, and the mysticism of world music. His work is an exploration of rhythm, culture, and emotional landscapes — a fusion that feels both timeless and contemporary.
A Modern Jazz Visionary
Unlike traditional jazz artists, Arman’s compositions often start as vivid images — a desert horizon, a city at dusk, or a dance in an old saloon. From there, he builds grooves and melodies that evoke movement and story. His sound blends **electric bass lines, analog synth textures, and global percussion**, creating music that speaks to both jazz purists and adventurous listeners alike.
From Photographer to Jazz Composer
Before composing jazz, I was behind the lens — a **photographer and amateur filmmaker** crafting odd family videos. I dreamed of directing movies, but music became my medium. Now, I storyboard with sound. Two years into music production, I blend jazz fusion with storytelling, looping beats like camera shots, turning melodies into cinematic plots.
Montreal Roots, Global Spirit
Based in Montreal, Arman draws from the city’s creative energy — a crossroads of cultures and styles — while also channeling the warmth and rhythm of global traditions. Whether it’s a funky bass groove inspired by 1970s fusion, a mysterious modal piano line, or an **Armenian folk motif** reimagined through jazz harmony, his music bridges worlds.
The Story Behind the Sound
Arman’s approach to music is deeply personal: *“Every melody begins as a conversation between emotion and imagination. I compose like I’m painting scenes from invisible films — each track has a story waiting to be heard.”*
His songs like *The Crusade*, *Vintage Electric*, and *Thirsty Arab (Tales of Scheherazade)* tell cinematic tales that flow through desert jazz, funk-rock, and soulful improvisation. Each piece stands alone but also fits into a larger musical universe — one defined by curiosity and rhythm.