The legendary Xylouris family is in deep mourning following the passing of Giannis Xylouris, affectionately known by his nickname “Psarogiannis,” at the age of 83.
Born in the historic mountain village of Anogeia in 1943, Giannis was the brother of the immortal “Archangel of Crete,” Nikos Xylouris, and the virtuoso Psarantonis. He was a central figure in a lineage that has defined Cretan musical tradition for four generations, offering an immeasurable contribution to the soul of Greek folk music.
The life of a virtuoso
The loss of the renowned laouto (lute) player has cast a shadow over Crete and all of Greece. Psarogiannis was more than a musician; he was a living symbol of local tradition and musical continuity.
His journey began in 1948, at the age of five, when he first picked up a mandolin—an early encounter that soon led him to the lute and the lyre. Even as a primary school student, Giannis spoke to these instruments in a “secret language,” a dialogue reserved for those consumed by a sacred passion for their craft.
By 1955, at just 12 years old, he was already accompanying his brother Nikos on the lute, marking the beginning of a lifelong musical partnership. Two years later, in 1957, at the age of 14, he made his recording debut alongside Nikos, formally entering the musical canon of Crete.
By 1960, at only 17, he was widely regarded as one of the finest lute players on the island, with the most distinguished lyra players actively seeking him out as their primary collaborator—an early recognition of a virtuosity that would define his legacy.
The mastery and innovation of Giannis Xylouris
While Psarogiannis achieved mastery of the lute and mandolin, he never stopped exploring. He expanded his horizons into singing, composing, and playing the Cretan lyra.
Blessed with a rare musical imagination and flawless technique, he began composing contemporary Cretan songs characterized by such complexity and emotion that they would be envied by even the most classically trained composers. His lute playing, captured on dozens of records, bears the “seal of perfection,” marked by a unique technique that influenced countless successors.
Psarogiannis became a household name across Greece, and his artistic presence was felt globally. Through numerous concerts and appearances abroad, he brought the rugged, poetic spirit of Crete to international audiences.
He leaves behind a legacy of exquisite performances and a family name that remains synonymous with the very best of Greek culture. As the strings of his lute go silent, his recordings remain as a testament to a man who lived and breathed the music of his ancestors.
