The body of Greek songwriter and artist Dionysis Savvopoulos will lie in state in the chapel of the Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens on Saturday, October 25, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 25, allowing the public to pay their final respects before the funeral.
The funeral service will follow at 1 p.m. at the First Cemetery of Athens.
Savvopoulos, one of the most influential artists of his generation, died at age 81 on Tuesday, after being hospitalized in Athens.
His pioneering music and poignant verse managed to resonate with all generations, expressing not only inner battles but also political ideals and social change.
Photo: ANA/MPA/Alexandros Beltes
Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni paid tribute to Dionysis Savvopoulos, calling him one of Greece’s greatest songwriters and a profoundly influential artist. She praised him as not only a gifted poet and performer but also a creative spirit who captured the soul of modern Greece. Through his music, lyrics, and storytelling, Savvopoulos expressed the hopes and identity of the Greek people, she said, bridging tradition and modernity. His work helped shape national consciousness and celebrated Greek culture as a shared, living experience. “He will remain eternally present,” she noted.
Over the past week, condolences have poured in from political leaders across the spectrum and countless admirers on social media, reflecting the artist’s lasting cultural impact.
Born in Thessaloniki on December 2, 1944, Savvopoulos is survived by his wife Aspa and their sons Cornelios and Romanos.
In lieu of wreaths, the family said in a statement on Thursday that it encourages donations to music education: a cause close to the Savvopoulos’ heart. Contributions may be made to the Music Department of the Ionian University, where Savvopoulos once taught (Eurobank – GR18 0260 2950 0002 9020 1796 406 | Beneficiary: Ionian University) or to the Department of Music Science and Art, University of Macedonia in Thessaloniki, his birthplace. (Piraeus – GR26 0172 2020 0052 0209 9405 694 | Beneficiary: The Company for the Development and Management of the Property of the University of Macedonia). Please note the reason for donation: “Dionysis Savvopoulos.”
