Wheaton Teen's Passion for the Violin Drives Success

Playing the violin has been a passion for Wheaton resident Arec Jamgochian since he was 8 years old.

He has been recognized for his achievements throughout his burgeoning career with a scholarship from the Levine School of Music, Maryland Classic Youth Orchestras, 1st place 2011 Cogen Concerto Competition Senior Division and many more accolades.

Jamgochian, , has recently been invited to perform as the featured guest at the Atlas Performing Arts Center on Sunday, Oct. 16, in Washington, D.C. The performance starts at 5 p.m.

When he takes the stage it will be his first time performing with an orchestra and he says it's an experience he is looking forward to.

"I'm mostly after the end result and that's what keeps me going — and hearing everyone praise me," said Jamgochian.

This journey started when he was 3 years old in the car with his father, Levon Jamgochian, who is known for his printmaking and sculpting. Jamgochian can vividly remember how his father used to play classical music while driving.

He cultivated a love for the sounds.

"Back then, I was more exposed to classical music and jazz, which started me on the violin because I thought it would be pretty cool," Jamgochian said. "He overexposed me to art but it was good for music."

Back in February the father-son duo collaborated with music and artwork at Glenview Mansion at Rockville Civic Center Park.