The Greek Festival of Sydney is all set to deliver a jam-packed evening of Greek Rebetiko music, courtesy of the band ‘Estudiantina of Melbourne’ and their tribute concert to legends Vassilis Tsitsanis and Sotiria Bellou.
The show, titled ‘Vassilis Tsitsanis & Sotiria Bellou – A Musical Tribute by Estudiantina of Melbourne’, takes place this Sunday evening (6.30pm) at Bankstown Sports Club.
The concert promises to celebrate the legacy of the two iconic figures in Greek music history who played an influential role in shaping and popularising Rebetiko music.
Speaking on behalf of the band, Con Kalamaras expressed great excitement about bringing the concert to Sydney after its successful run in Melbourne last year.
“Their music captures the essence of Greek urban life and the emotional landscape of the people,” Kalamaras said in the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW’s official media release on the event.
“By paying homage to their music, we celebrate a rich cultural legacy that continues to inspire.”
He highlighted the significant role Tsitsanis and Bellou played in transforming Rebetiko from music associated with the marginalized urban underworld to a celebrated genre that resonates deeply with Greek identity.
The concert will take guests on a chronological journey through the timeless songs of Tsitsanis and Bellou, including beloved classics like ‘Synnefiasmeni Kyriaki (Cloudy Sunday)’ and ‘Ta Kavourakia (The Crabs)’.
The band will also launch their new album, Journey to Rebetika, which includes reinterpretations of Tsitsanis-Bellou classics.
Harry Danalis, the Community’s President, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating:
“It is an honour to host Estudiantina of Melbourne and to celebrate the musical heritage of Tsitsanis and Bellou. Their contributions to Greek music are profound, and this concert offers a rare opportunity for audiences to connect with the depth and emotion of Rebetiko.”
Kalamaras thanked the Festival for adding them to their calendar of events for 2025.
“We have a great relationship with the Greek Festival of Sydney, and we love playing here. Sydney audiences bring such passion and appreciation for our music. We are thrilled to be part of the festival once again,” he said.
