The Australian Hellenic Choir Inc. has announced it will present a contemporary reimagining of the Greek Blues with a 30-piece orchestra in a new concert entitled “Rebetiko Reimagined” at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music on Saturday, 19 October 2024.
Under the musical direction of Mr. Leon Vitogiannis and Mr. Stefanos Maragkakis on piano, “Rebetiko Reimagined” merges timeless Rebetiko melodies with contemporary arrangements, offering a tribute to the original Rebetes and captivating listeners from all generations.
Audiences will experience unforgettable renditions of iconic Rebetiko songs by soloists Heidi Spiliopoulos and Sandy Constantopedos, accompanied by the rich harmonies of the four-voice choir.
“Rebetiko is the urban popular Greek music of the poorest classes in the first half of the 20th century,” explained Mr. James Tsolakis, Founder and President of the Choir. “Often referred to as ‘Greek Blues,’ we are immensely proud of the work Leon and Stefanos have done in reimagining this music for a new generation of Greeks worldwide.”
The Australian Hellenic Choir, a multicultural and multilingual ensemble, is dedicated to bringing world-class music to Australian and Greek audiences. Following their recent success at the Sydney Town Hall, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese, this concert promises to deliver performances of international choral standards.
Elias Petropoulos, a renowned folklorist and urban historian, once noted, “Rebetiko songs are the most accessible source of information about the life and attributes of the Rebetes. They encompass various themes such as love, poverty, imprisonment, the underworld, death, and hashish, with about half of the songs focusing on love, particularly lost and unrequited love.”
All net proceeds from this event will support charities aiding the homeless. Tickets are priced at $79 per person, with a concession rate of $69. They can be purchased via the Choir’s Facebook Page and Humantix in the link below.
https://events.humanitix.com/rebetiko-reimagined/tickets?hxchl=hex-qrc&hxref=slt
For further information about the Australian Hellenic Choir, this event, or membership and auditions, please contact:
• Mr. James Tsolakis, AHC President: M: 0416 060 700
• Ms. Despina Lucas, AHC Vice President: M: 0438 289 699
• AHC Email: E: ah.choiraust@gmail.com
• Sponsorship or Benefactor Enquiries: M: 0416 060 700
The Australian Hellenic Choir is a musical group based in Australia that focuses on performing Greek music, particularly traditional and contemporary songs from Greece and classical works by Greek composers. The choir often participates in cultural events, festivals, and performances that celebrate Greek heritage and promote Hellenic culture in Australia.
The choir typically consists of diverse singers, including Greek Australians and others interested in Greek music and culture. Their performances often highlight themes of Greek history, mythology, and religious traditions. The Australian Hellenic Choir contributes to preserving and promoting Greek cultural identity within the broader Australian multicultural society.
