Like anything in life, if you want to be the master of your craft it takes commitment, dedication and perseverance, says internationally acclaimed bouzouki performer Tommy Tsonis.
“I started playing bouzouki from the age of seven,’’ he tells the South West Voice ahead of his special performance this Sunday, October 27 at the inaugural Macarthur Greeks Oxi Day at the Campbelltown Showground.
“Whilst the kids on my street were playing on their bikes, most of my childhood was spent in my room on endless hours of practice,’’ says Tommy, who has performed at more than 5,000 events in Australia and on the global stage in a career spanning more than two decades.
Tommy has performed at numerous official cultural events, including Greek festivals in support of the Greek community.
In 2000, the bouzouki master was invited to perform at the Sydney Olympic Games official ceremony to launch the torch relay – a career highlight that combined Tommy’s passion for the bouzouki and his love of Greece and Australia.
“As the years have gone on, my drive and passion hasn’t faded, if anything it has challenged me to only get better,’’ says Tommy.
“I would like to thank everyone who has supported me and been part of this journey. I wish everyone health and happiness. God bless you all.’’
Tommy says he is looking forward to a fun and exciting day entertaining the Campbelltown locals this Sunday.
“And I am very thankful for the opportunity see you all there – opaaaaaa!’’
While Tommy Tsonis will be the star of the show on Sunday at the Campbelltown Showground, there will be plenty of other entertainment on offer.
The popular traditional Greek dancers from Sydney Sizmos will also be part of the program, performing twice, at 12.30pm and 1.30pm.
Tommy Tsonis is scheduled to start his show from 2pm. DJs will be also playing Greek music over the PA system during the day.
Members of the fabulous pipe and drums band from Ingleburn RSL will also be performing, including playing Advance Australia Fair at around 1pm as part of the formalities.
Food on offer will include lamb and chicken souvlaki wraps, while refreshing beverages will also be available. A coffee truck will be operating during the day, from 11am to 4pm.
“Macarthur Greeks are holding Oxi Day to showcase Greek culture and to share it with the entire community of Macarthur and South West Sydney,’’ says president Eric Kontos, a long time resident of Campbelltown, who currently owns and operates South West Voice in Macarthur.
“We warmly invite everyone to join us on October 27 to celebrate with us this little corner of our wonderful multicultural community.
“This may be a Greek cultural event, but you don’t have to be Greek or have Greek heritage to attend,’’ he said.
“Everyone is welcome with open arms in typical Greek hospitality.
“Bring the family – the kids can bring a ball to kick around in the playing field – have some delicious Greek food and enjoy a little bit of Greek culture right in the heart of Campbelltown.’’
Gates will open from 11am.
