By Panagiotis Dalatariof
Ahead of his first Australian tour for the 44th National Cretan Federation Convention in January 2026, hosted by the Cretan Association of Sydney & NSW under the auspices of the Cretan Federation of Australia and New Zealand, musician Mihalis Charkiolakis sat down with The Greek Herald.
He traced his personal music story back to childhood – sparked by his father’s urging – and described how sound becomes the vessel for emotion, memory and identity.
With this being his first-ever visit to Australia, where he will perform alongside Giorgos Koudoumougiannakis (lyra) and Vangelis Bagourakis (lute), Mihalis expressed deep honour and anticipation to play for diaspora audiences who, as he said, carry Crete in their hearts, often even more intensely than those living on the Greek island.
How did your love for music begin?
I stepped into the world of music after encouragement from my father, when I was about seven years old. At first, it felt like a fun activity – I wasn’t sure if I truly loved it. But I realised I was learning faster than the other children, and that gave me confidence and motivation.
When my classmates and I began playing together at the academy, it was then I understood this was something much deeper – something that genuinely fulfilled me. From that moment on, my love for music grew. The more I explored it, the more I connected with it, and the more I enjoyed it.
What emotions does music evoke in you?
Music is a journey in itself. It can soothe you, stir excitement, bring you joy, or even sadness – that is its beauty. I feel incredibly fortunate to be doing something that gives me a way to express the emotions I experience at different chapters of my life. Sometimes, through music, I feel connected to something greater than myself – to people, emotion, place, memory… to everything.”
What are your expectations for your visit to Australia? Is it your first time in the country?
We are truly looking forward to travelling to Australia – it will be our first time performing so close to the Greek diaspora there. Everything we’ve heard so far has filled us with excitement.
We have travelled to America before, but this feels entirely different – a new, special experience. We can’t wait to meet the community and share our music with them.
It’s a tremendous honour for us to bring a piece of Crete to those living abroad and far from home.
What do you believe is the greatest strength of music – especially your own music?
Music’s greatest power is that it speaks where words often can’t. It reaches every person differently – bringing memories to the surface, offering comfort, or creating joy. It can sing of celebration, heartbreak, nostalgia… life far from home… of everything. For me, that connection with the audience is the most magical part.
I also believe an artist’s role is to strike balance – to guide the celebration (‘glendi’) of the crowd, while also expressing something truthful and emotional through their joy.
What makes performing for diaspora audiences different?
At every Cretan diaspora concert, there’s a powerful emotional weight – because we hold Crete in our hands for people who miss it deeply. It can feel like we’re returning them to their villages, their youth, their family memories – all through sound.
Often, when we play for diaspora audiences, we joke that they may be even more… Cretan than those of us who live on the island! They embrace us so warmly, and that pushes us to give even more on stage. That bond is unmistakable.
What should the Cretan community in Australia expect from you — and how do you hope to present yourselves?
We know there is a strong Cretan presence in Australia, and we want to honour that. Our goal is to bring energy, warmth and authenticity – but also sincerity and respect.
It’s a privilege for us that the community welcomes us with such trust. And yes, we hope to become one big group, one big shared company – enjoying unforgettable moments together.
We want our music to feel like a bridge between Crete and the communities who carry it with them, so they leave the night with joy, emotion and beautiful memories.
You once said music is your passport to anything you can imagine. What do you envision for your time and performances in Australia?
I used the phrase ‘passport’ metaphorically. For me, music is the vehicle for expressing every emotion and thought – not only a way to travel the world, though I do feel blessed that my art has given me that opportunity.
For Australia, I imagine discovering beautiful places, meeting new people, experiencing different perspectives – but always, beneath it all, the heartbeat of Cretan culture.
Greek Australians are known for embracing visiting artists. Would you like to send them a message?
I’ll speak boldly on behalf of all of us and say a heartfelt thank you – for the generosity, warmth and hospitality shown to artists every single time. We are excited to meet everyone, celebrate together, and play for you. Until we meet – health, happiness, and a warm reunion ahead for all.”
Time is running out to register for the 44th National Cretan Federation Convention, with registrations officially closing on 1 December 2025. Hotel details, as well as event booking details, can be found at the following link: www.cretannsw.com.au/cretanconvention2026.
