Paul Arakelian: The Art of Improvisation and Life’s Journey

Paul Arakelian: A Symphony of Music and Fitness

Paul Arakelian, a multifaceted artist and fitness enthusiast, embodies the spirit of versatility. As a saxophonist, keyboardist, flutist, composer, and jazz musician, he also finds time to inspire others as a fitness and bodybuilding instructor. Paul’s philosophy is clear: self-pity is not an option. In this candid interview, Paul shares his thoughts on the music industry, his passion for fitness, and his unique approach to life.

Music vs. Reality

Paul admits, “Music doesn’t pay the bills.” The opportunities to pursue one’s passion in the music world are dwindling. For Paul, playing music is about feeding the soul, not just earning a living. He finds playing covers in bars unfulfilling. Given his long-standing involvement in strength sports, transitioning to a fitness instructor was a natural choice. “The gym is my primary workplace now,” he states.

However, Paul hasn’t abandoned music entirely. He still engages in projects he enjoys. In March, he and his sister, Yelena Arakelian, organized a concert in Minsk called “Love Songs in Three Languages.” In late June, with the support of the Goethe Institute in Minsk, they held an “Evening of Improvisational Music.” Despite the crisis, Paul is glad that classical music evenings and jazz nights still occur in the capital, offering a glimmer of hope for true art enthusiasts.

From Music to Fitness

When asked if he regrets not dedicating his life solely to music, Paul admits it hurts. “But I’m a man, and my conscience doesn’t allow me to lie on the couch and worry,” he says. Supporting his family is a priority, and he believes in taking action rather than feeling sorry for himself. “A musician-trainer is a winning combination,” he smiles.

A Healthy Lifestyle?

Paul laughs at the idea that a healthy lifestyle led him to the gym. “I have the least relation to a healthy lifestyle. I smoke, drink, and love fast food,” he confesses. He doesn’t believe in rigid frameworks or tormenting the body with endless exercises. “Don’t deceive yourself and don’t play imposed roles. Do as you see fit,” he advises. His trainees achieve results faster because he doesn’t impose unrealistic standards. “My figure is not ideal, but people come to me because I’m not ideal and am in about the same conditions as they are. We achieve results together and feel normal at the same time.”

Paul’s goal is not to achieve a certain number of “cubes” by a specific date but to maintain overall physical condition. “I love to eat heartily, but I also care about how I look. That’s how ‘iron’ entered my life,” he explains.

Food and Love

Paul has a passionate love for fast food and pastries. “Sushki! I can’t live without them for the last year,” he exclaims. He humorously recounts how a chocolate cake baked by a girl he initially ignored won his attention. “After 30, the stomach took precedence; I began to trust it more,” he laughs.

Inner Changes

Paul acknowledges significant inner changes, albeit late in life. “Life is not always what you want. In many ways, I had to step over myself. But you can get used to this too,” he reflects.

Sharing Personal Feelings

Paul believes that artists reveal the most secret corners of their soul in their creativity. “I don’t like to whine very much. With my closest friends, I can share my ‘aches,’ but I do it extremely rarely,” he admits. His sister, Yelena, is his closest friend. “We have been on the same wavelength since childhood; there is a strong connection between us,” he shares.

Fighting Whining

Paul finds solace in music and fitness. He plays the keyboard almost every night, recording “night” works with his sister. “We arrange joint concerts twice a year, and the question is how to have time to play everything,” he smiles.

Poetry and Music

Paul appreciates the work of poets like Ballymont and Anatoly Sisa. “For me, Sisa’s poems are blues, and sometimes even blues-rock. His poetry is eclectic, just like my music,” he explains.

Improvisation: The Ultimate Skill

“Improvisation is my forte; I won’t deny it,” Paul smiles. He believes improvisation is a way to think broadly and a boundless form of self-expression. “Improvisation can and even should be learned,” he asserts.

For more information about Paul Arakelian, you can visit his Instagram profile.