Christine Kharazian is a concert violinist whose artistry bridges classical, traditional, and jazz music. Originally from Armenia, she trained at the Tchaikovsky Advanced School of Music and the Komitas State Conservatory in Yerevan. Early in her career, she performed as a first violinist with the Armenian National Opera Symphony and as a featured soloist with the Sharakan Ensemble of Ancient and Medieval Music of Armenian TV and Radio. Her mentors, Professors Edward Dayan and Hrachia Harutunyan, were direct pupils of legendary violinists David Oistrakh and Leonid Kogan.
Since moving to the Washington, D.C. area, Christine has become known for her versatility and dynamic stage presence. She has performed as a soloist and ensemble musician at the Kennedy Center, Strathmore Hall, Blues Alley Jazz Club, and various embassies in Washington, among other venues. Her collaborations span a wide range of traditions, including performances with the Pan-American Orchestra, Raices Negras with Ceylon Mitchell, the Balkan music group Orchester Praževica, as well as explorations of Gypsy Jazz, Brazilian choro, and contemporary global styles.
Beyond the stage, Christine is a deeply committed educator with extensive experience teaching students of all ages and backgrounds. After many years of teaching at Fillmore Arts Center and Duke Ellington School of the Arts, she currently teaches at Sidwell Friends School and Levine School of Music. She is a Teaching Artist with Washington Performing Arts and the Strathmore String Program. She is known for her holistic, encouraging approach that blends strong technical foundations with expressive musicianship.
Christine is equally passionate about interdisciplinary work, blending music with theater and storytelling. She appeared onstage with Quotidian Theatre Company in productions of Chekhov's A Little Trick (2015) and The Lady with the Little Dog (2016), where director Stephanie Mumford created a violin-playing role especially for her.
Christine's creative voice also extends to composition. She released four songs in 2025, including two original compositions: Valse Astolfi and Flamingo's Dream. Both songs wouldn't be possible without the support and collaboration of Christine's biggest musical influence — her sister, pianist and composer Sofi Mikayelyan.
As seen at:
The Kennedy Center • U.S. Naval Observatory • Blues Alley Jazz • Strathmore • Shakespeare Theatre • Four Seasons • Waldorf Astoria
Performances
Available for weddings, ceremonies, receptions, corporate events, and private gatherings throughout Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. Performing as a soloist or with ensemble.
I believe that every student—child or adult—can develop meaningful, expressive musicianship when supported with clarity, curiosity, and joy. Currently on faculty at Duke Ellington School of the Arts and Sidwell Friends School, and a teaching artist with Washington Performing Arts.
Teaching Philosophy
Music That Inspires. Teaching That Transforms.
My teaching blends classical foundations with a flexible, creative approach shaped by years of performing across many styles, including classical, jazz improvisation, and world music traditions.
A Strong Technical Foundation
Great playing begins with great fundamentals. I focus on healthy posture and setup, ease and fluency of movement, beautiful tone from the start, and rhythmic accuracy.
Individualized Learning
No two students learn the same way. My lessons are designed around each student's goals, pace, and musical personality.
Musical Expression at Every Level
Even beginners can play with phrasing, color, and intention. I help students listen actively, shape musical lines, and connect emotionally with the music they play.
A Supportive Environment
A beautiful, acoustically warm studio and a patient, motivating teaching style allow students to relax, focus, and grow.
A Studio That Welcomes Everyone
I welcome beginners, returning adult players, dedicated young musicians, and students exploring multi-genre playing.
"Exceeded all my expectations. Christine dedicated herself to making my marriage proposal so special—her answer was always 'yes.' She even learned a piece specifically for my event when other vendors said they couldn't. Christine is in a league of her own. Thank you for making our engagement day truly unforgettable."
— Jeremy R.
"Christine did a wonderful job playing ceremony and cocktail hour music for our wedding. She has a very versatile repertoire and learned a special song for the bridal processional. I can't recommend her highly enough. Just beautiful, really."
— Colleen W.
"Christine was amazing. She was proactive at the event, offering to play ambient music while we ushered folks into the chapel. Surrounded by hundreds of military officers and special operators, her professionalism matched the tone of the event. Her rendition of the requested keynote piece was outstanding—the first note literally took the breath out of the room."
— Casey S.
"We could not be more satisfied with Christine's work. Her professionalism, punctuality, and talent surpassed our expectations. She provided such a unique and dynamic atmosphere during our wedding ceremony that our guests continually refer to her amazing performance. She is incredibly easy to work with and truly unmatched in her skill. Thank you Christine for making our wedding an unforgettable event."
— Elitha B.
Lessons
"Our daughter has flourished under Christine's instruction. She makes learning rigorous but joyful."
— Emily, Parent
"As an adult beginner, I was nervous. Christine's patience and expertise made all the difference."
— Robert, Student
"My son's technique improved dramatically. More importantly, Christine reignited his love for the instrument."
— Catherine, Parent
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"Once upon a time... a taut vibrating string made itself heard, and with this second voice a human being was no longer alone."
— Yehudi Menuhin