Music: Revelations from the past and in the present
Dimitris Mitropoulos Dimitris Mitropoulos’s recently released opera «Adelfi Beatriki» (Sister Beatrice), by the Lyra label, shed light on yet another dimension of the Greek composer, pianist and conductor’s work. Composed by Mitropoulos at the age of 19, «Sister Beatrice» was heavily influenced by composers such as Wagner and Debussy. The opera premiered on May 11, 1920 at the Athens Municipal Theater with Katina Paxinou, a soprano at the time, in the starring role. The recording is conducted by Vyron Fidetzis, and the lead is interpreted by Martha Arapi, a vocalist who has contributed like few others to the revival of Greek song.
N.D. Fivos Delivorias Who can deny that Fivos Delivorias is his generation’s leading songsmith? His work is sharp and humorous, and his songs present contemporary issues and problems in the most relevant way possible. They are like short stories, with a beginning and an end, a typical example being «Caesar’s Visit,» a song about a US presidential visit to Greece. Rather than provide the commentary himself, Delivorias does it through the Greek prime minister, grappling with himself on a stressful night. This personal monologue number is similar to his «Kolonaki Dog.» «Kathreptis,» Delivorias’s most recent release, was one of 2003’s best albums. Melodies and lyrics may not be its strongest points, but its potency and substance distinguish it.
I.S. Michalis Hadziyiannis The year 2003 definitely belonged to Hadziyiannis. Running into an elephant in Omonia is more likely than not having heard one of Michalis Hadziyiannis’s string of hits from 2002 right through 2003. The standout feature of his work is not so much his ability to deliver a pop hit, or appeal to teeny-bopper fans. Hadziyiannis has tremendous ability as a singer – performing at the Vox club this winter season, he has also proven himself a worthy laiko (popular) singer; he writes his own material, which is success-bound but not irritating, hit-factory material; he’s clean-cut, hardworking, and modest. The 25-year-old has drawn seasoned colleagues his way, such as a recent collaboration with Dimitra Galani. And he has set an example for thousands of young people.
D.R.
