In 1926, Hovsep Shamlian embarked on a venture to produce recordings under his self-titled label, distinguishing his work by labeling it as “Armenian Orchestra,” a departure from the more generic “Oriental” label used by others. He took a further step in cultural preservation by publishing his lyrics along with written music, aiming to make them accessible to the community. Conscious of linguistic diversity, Shamlian chose to write exclusively in a universally-understood Armenian, rather than the specific dialect of Dikranagertzi Armenians, broadening the appeal and accessibility of his work.
Between 1927 and 1929, Shamlian registered the lyrics for 17 original songs with the U.S. copyright office. His compositions were noted for their poetic richness, yet they were secular in nature, weaving tales of love and life. These songs were crafted for celebratory occasions such as weddings and picnics, reflecting the joys and experiences of everyday life.
Shamlian's contributions went beyond mere entertainment; he provided his community with a new repertoire of music. This repertoire was deeply rooted in the traditions of village music but was presented in a universalized Western Armenian form, blending tradition with a broader cultural reach. His work symbolized not only a preservation of Armenian musical heritage but also its adaptation and evolution in the diaspora context.
