Estudiantina of Melbourne have announced the release of their highly anticipated second album, Ta Nisia (The Islands), with a special live launch event at the iconic Brunswick Ballroom on Sunday, 15 March 2026.
Following the success of their debut album Journey to Rebetika, the ensemble returns with a work that captures both continuity and transformation. Ta Nisia is more than a musical homage to the sunlit Greek islands. It marks a pivotal evolution in the group’s artistic journey – honouring their roots in Smyrneika and rebetiko while boldly embracing new creative directions.
Ta Nisia operates on both literal and metaphorical levels. Literally, it conjures the shimmering coastlines of the Aegean – whitewashed villages, salt-washed air and glistening seas – reflecting the ensemble’s commitment to Greek musical traditions.
Metaphorically, the album forms a constellation of musical “islands”: each track stands alone yet remains connected to a wider narrative of migration, identity, growth and belonging.
The ensemble’s core musicians for this album are: Maria Antaras-Dalamagas – Accordion, Vocals, Vagelis Ginis – Vocals, Camille El Feghali – Qanun, Jenny Dixon – Violin, Alex Petropoulos – Guitar, Paul Karalis – Bouzouki, Con Kalamaras – Bouzouki, Vocals, Rosco Heck – Percussion.
But also expanding with guest artists Indra Buraczewska (double bass) and Tim Meyen (cimbalom – a rare 145-string Austro-Hungarian instrument) further enrich the soundscape, adding depth, texture and a gentle push into unexplored musical territories.
This album stands as a cultural snapshot of Melbourne’s vibrant multicultural landscape. It speaks to the universality of music – an international language that transcends borders, time and language. At the same time, it pays tribute to Melbourne itself: a city that has quietly but powerfully brought these musicians together.
In many ways, Melbourne becomes an unspoken member of the ensemble – nurturing their creativity and shaping their collective voice.
Ta Nisia represents the ensemble’s continuous growth as artists and as individuals. Through performances at festivals and events across Australia, Estudiantina of Melbourne have cultivated a distinctive sound that now resonates internationally. Their work has received attention from Greek media across several continents, firmly positioning them within the global Greek musical diaspora.
Event Details:
- Ta Nisia Album Launch Date: Sunday, 15 March 2026
- Venue: Brunswick Ballroom, Melbourne
- Tickets here
This event is proudly supported by Brunswick Ballroom, ANT Pacific, The Greek Herald, The Hellenic Museum, Neos Kosmos, and the Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne.
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