Petroloukas Halkias, the legendary clarinetist and leading figure in the traditional music of Epirus, has died at the age of 90.
Born in Delvinaki, northwestern Greece, into a musical family, Halkias began playing clarinet at age 11, initially against his father Periklis’ wishes.
The two later performed together in Athens, appearing at top venues and summer festivals in Epirus.
In 1960, Halkias emigrated to the United States, where he spent nearly 20 years preserving and promoting Epirus’ musical heritage.
He returned to Greece in 1979, settling in Athens and continuing to perform, record, and collaborate widely across genres.
His discography includes eight solo albums and numerous collaborations with major Greek artists.
Culture Minister Lina Mendoni honoured his legacy, saying: “His loss is not merely the loss of a great musician, but of a faithful guardian of our musical heritage and cultural identity. He leaves behind an irreplaceable void in traditional music and in the heart of Epirus.”
Source: Ekathimerini.
