Cretan Music Legend Giannis Xylouris, Known as Psarogiannis, Passes Away at 83

Greece — Deep sorrow has enveloped Crete and the Greek music world following the death of Giannis Xylouris, affectionately known as Psarogiannis, one of the most revered masters of traditional Cretan music. He was 83.

Xylouris, a pivotal member of the legendary Xylouris family—which includes his late brother Nikos Xylouris (Psaronikos), the iconic "Archangel of Crete," and his brother Antonis Xylouris (Psarantonis)—died on Thursday, January 15, 2026.

Born in 1943 in the mountain village of Anogia, Rethymno, Crete, Giannis showed extraordinary musical talent from childhood. He began playing the mandolin at age five, later mastering the laouto (Cretan lute) and even the Cretan lyra. By age 12, he was accompanying his brother Nikos on the laouto, and at 14 he recorded his first album with him. By 17, in 1960, he had already established himself as one of Crete's premier laouto players.

Throughout his long career, Psarogiannis was not only a virtuoso performer but also a composer and collaborator. He worked closely with giants like Kostas Mountakis in the 1960s, Vasilis Skoulas, and musicians from Epirus, the Aegean islands, and Asia Minor. He also mentored and performed with younger artists, helping bridge generations in Cretan music.

What set him apart was his innovative style, which transformed the laouto from a mere accompanying instrument into a powerful, central voice in Cretan ensembles—often described as carrying the full emotional weight and "voice" of the island itself.

His passing has triggered widespread mourning, with tributes pouring in from across Crete, especially Anogia, and the broader artistic community. As one Cretan saying goes in times like these: the mountains are quieter today, but the legacy of Psarogiannis will echo through generations of mantinades, rizitika, and syrtos dances.

May his memory be eternal. Αιωνία του η μνήμη.