The Aegean island of Syros is known for its neoclassical architecture, its elegant capital of Ermoupoli, and a rich musical heritage, yet this summer, it’s set to make an innovative cultural statement with the resumption of an international classical music festival. Formerly known as the International Cyclades Festival, the event now returns under a new name: SYRREO—a celebration of 21 years of musical excellence, reborn with a fresh vision and an international ambition.
Running from August 3 to 17, SYRREO 2025 brings world-class performances to a singular Greek island where Cycladic minimalism meets 19th-century grandeur. For Festival President Fotis Karagiannopoulos, who has led the event for over two decades, the new era reflects a deeper purpose:
“Don’t be afraid of classical music,” he says. “And don’t think of the Greek summer as only physical pleasure—it can also be nourishment for the soul. Syros is the only island in the world where an untouched European city sits against a Cycladic backdrop. For 21 years, this festival has proven Greece can be more than just ‘beach–taverna–bar.’ Imagine Vienna on a Cycladic beach.”
Now under the auspices of UNESCO and the Greek Ministry of Culture, the festival is organized by the nonprofit CEM (Culture and Environment of Maritime Greece) with support from cultural leaders and institutions.
A Visionary New Artistic Direction
This year also marks the arrival of a new Artistic Director: Nikolas Kavakos, who promises to bridge tradition and innovation. His programming approach highlights not only classical masterworks but also operetta, acoustic folk traditions, and immersive experiences for all ages.
“Classical music is not a museum piece,” says Kavakos. “It’s alive, emotionally powerful, and endlessly engaging. This year’s lineup reflects the extraordinary range of the classical idiom—there’s something here for everyone.”
Highlights from the 2025 Programme
The festival opens with a free gala of Greek operetta in the heart of Ermoupoli, bringing the historic Miaouli Square to life under the stars. The event will feature vocal soloists from the Camerata Orchestra conducted by Andreas Tselikas.
Other standout performances include:
- August 5: A violin recital by 15-year-old virtuoso Odysseas Tsakalidis, winner of the “Hear the Youth 2025” competition, performing works by Mozart, Ravel, Sarasate, and more.
Odysseas Tsakalidis
- August 7: A surprise crossover concert featuring legendary guitarist Kostas Kotsiolis alongside a string quartet from the National Opera, blending classical, modern, and even Beatles arrangements.
- August 12: Acclaimed baritone Dimitris Platanias joins pianist Sofia Tambakopoulou in an evening of English art song, including works by Finzi and Vaughan Williams.
- August 13: A free educational music-theatre event for children by Arco Sonore and El Sistema Greece, helping the next generation discover classical music in a playful, hands-on setting.
- August 17: A stunning festival finale by violinist and academic Leonidas Kavakos with the Apollωn Ensemble, performing chamber works by Beethoven and Brahms at the iconic Apollon Theater.
SYRREO is co-organized with the Municipality of Syros–Ermoupoli, the South Aegean Region, and its founding body CEM, with major backing from UNESCO.
Tickets go on sale Friday, July 25 at 10:00 via ticketservices.gr and at the Apollon Theater box office.
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