Mikis Theodorakis is regarded as one of the greatest orchestral and choral composers in Greek history. He has written more than 1000 songs including epic orchestra masterpieces, and the internationally famed music for the Academy Award winning film, Zorba the Greek (1964), Z (1969) and Serpico (1973). Romiosini and Beyond is a musical event that celebrates his incredible body of work. It will be performed at the Concert Hall, QPAC on Wednesday 22 May.
This exclusive one night only concert performance comes days after the city’s much-loved annual Greek celebration, Paniyiri Festival takes place at nearby Musgrave Park in South Brisbane. May will certainly be a month paying tribute to all things Greek.
Bringing Theodorakis’ music to life will be Sydney concert master Dimitris Calligeros, international vocal soloist Dimitris Basis and internationally acclaimed orchestra conductor, composer and arranger and Musical Director and Conductor for the Athens Olympics, George Ellis who will lead the four-piece Greek band and 40-piece orchestra. Renowned Greek instrument the Bouzouki will feature in the second half of the concert.
The first half of this two-part concert event features Theodorakis’ Romiosini, written in 1966. Incredibly moving, it is a Cycle of Songs based on the poetry of Yiannis Ritsos, winner of the Lenin Peace Prize in 1975. Describing hard fought struggle and summoning pride in Greek culture, this will be the first time that Romiosini has been played by a full symphony orchestra. The concert’s second half, Beyond, will be a celebration of Theodorakis’ popular music including his world famous score for Zorba the Greek and other much celebrated work for cinema.
