Odyssey Festival in SA journeys through the musical soul of Laiki

·

On the evening of October 19, Adelaide’s Olympic Hall came alive with transcendent melodies as over 200 people gathered to celebrate the rich legacy of Greek Laiko music. 

Part of South Australia’s Odyssey Greek Festival, the event honoured the sounds of the 1960s and 1970s, a period widely described as the “golden era of Greek Music” – specifically for its role in shaping the cultural and emotional landscape of Greece during a time of significant social, economic and political change.

The cultural legacy of Laiko music  

The name Laiko derives from the Greek meaning “of the people,” reflecting its role as a genre which was central to Greek folk music. 

As the President of the Greek Orthodox Community of SA (GOCSA), Peter Gardiakos, explained: “[Laiko Music was] more than just entertainment, [it] became the voice of a generation, reflecting the everyday struggles, dreams, and emotions of a nation. It told the stories of migration, love, and the resilience of the human spirit, creating melodies that continue to stir the hearts of listeners across Greece and the diaspora to this day…”

A journey through the Golden Age

Under the musical direction of Nick Filippatos, the performance was a heartfelt tribute to a time when Laiko music was the soundtrack of everyday life for many Greeks. 

Attendees revisited musical works by legendary composers such as Manos Loizos, Stavros Xarchakos, and Christos Nikolopoulos, and were taken on a journey through powerful lyrics and melodies given voice by icons such as Stelios Kazantzidis, Stratos Dionysiou, Haris Alexiou, Yiannis Kalaitzis and Litsa Diamanti.

The event featured a talented lineup of vocalists, including Jim Mountzouris, Nancy Karvouniari, Chris Kontoleon, and Paraskevi Siasios, each delivering powerful performances that paid homage to the legendary voices of the past, with the support of their accomplished ensemble. Together they re-created the magic and soul of the genre, connecting 1st, 2nd and 3rd generation Greek Australians, including Philhellenes, to this golden age of music. 

As the night unfolded, the audience embraced the invitation to sing and clap along, immersing themselves and participating in the spirit of the era. 

The atmosphere was a mix of joyful nostalgia and deep cultural appreciation, with many attendees remembering the familiar songs and lyrics which would have, over the past 60 years, brought life to the homes of many and filled the air of countless Greek community dances, events and celebrations. 

Paraskevi Siasios, a vocalist who made her debut into the genre of Laiko music at the event, emphasised to The Greek Herald the “vital” importance of ensuring the inheritance of Laiko music and that the songs continue into the future, acknowledging the struggle of the “Γιαγιάδες (grandmothers) and παππούδες (grandfathers) to maintain these songs.”

The evening ended on a high note, with the audience rising from their seats to dance to the exciting and energy filled melodies. The event will be remembered as a musical journey which not only honoured the passion and artistry of the Laiko period, but as a reaffirmation of the legacy these songs have had in shaping our shared and inherited Greek identity. 

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Alpha restaurant to host centenary celebration honouring Mikis Theodorakis

On Sunday, August 24 at 12pm, Alpha restaurant will host 'Centenary Tribute to Mikis Theodorakis' featuring the Australian Hellenic Choir.

Phlavour Revolution: Greek duo deliver home-cooked goodness to your doorstep

The duo behind restaurant Bahari in Richmond have recently launched a new venture, called Phlavour, ‘Mediterranean Ready Meals.’

Webinar for Greeks abroad tackles key tax issues and draws hundreds

The first TaxWebinar dedicated exclusively to Greeks abroad and tax residents of other countries was held on Wednesday, July 9.

From passports to tax reform: Loverdos sets agenda ahead of Australia visit

Loverdos has confirmed that he will be visiting Australia from 8 to 26 October, acknowledging the government’s absence from the country.

‘I’m not done yet’: Ange Postecoglou reflects on heritage and coaching dreams

Ange Postecoglou sat down with The Greek Herald to reflect on his philosophy and his cultural heritage. Read the interview here.

You May Also Like

Andrea Tsalamandris appointed as a new Judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria

County Court Judge Andrea Tsalamandris has been appointed as a new Judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria.

Arianna Huffington to Jennifer Aniston: “the ultimate role model of our Greek heritage”

It was Greek golden-girl Jennifer Aniston's birthday yesterday, and all of Hollywood's elites made sure to send out their best birthday wishes. Arianna Huffington, Founder...

Elena Tsineke selected by Washington Mystics in 2023 WNBA Draft

Greek female basketballer, Elena Tsineke, was drafted by the Washington Mystics today and will now play in the WNBA.