Live percussion on banks of the Arachthos River
Harmonicas and drums, Brazilian percussion and tap-dancing, flamenco and rock, not to mention concerts, music courses, seminars, exhibitions, workshops, day conferences, jam sessions and open-to-the-public improvisation rehearsals. The International Percussion Festival, which opened its doors a few days ago in the Kommeno area of Arta, will be taking place alongside the Arachthos River to August 2. Under the artistic direction of Nikos Touliatos, the festival features leading international artists from the world of percussion – performers and teachers alike. It is worth noting that in Kommeno, the concerts, events and workshops are free of charge – for inquiries about participation, contact [email protected]. The event’s inauguration earlier this week featured percussion ensembles from Arta as well as live performances by Alkis Kollias, Martha Moreleon and Serenata con Luna y Sol. Participating in this year’s festival is a prominent member of Europe’s contemporary jazz scene, Germany’s Gunter «Baby» Sommer, while other events include a Latin and flamenco performance, an African dance and percussion event, a concert featuring traditional tunes from the Greek-speaking parts of southern Italy, Greek rock with the Oloi oi Kaloi Chorane band, and a tribute to Epirus musician and clarinet soloist Vassilis Soukas, culminating in a farewell party that will include jam sessions involving professors and students.
