The 9th Rebetiko Festival returns in August with a rich program of free concerts, exhibitions, and workshops celebrating Greece’s iconic music genre.
The 9th Rebetiko Festival “Syros of Markos Vamvakaris” kicks off on August 28 and over four days offers concerts, exhibitions, workshops, conferences, a traditional musical instrument exhibit, and happenings and all events are free and open to all.
Rebetiko, often referred to as the Greek blues, was inscribed in 2017 on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list. In its decision, UNESCO highlighted the genre’s deep roots in Greek urban life and its powerful expression of social, cultural, and artistic identity.
This year’s edition pays homage to two influential figures of the rebetiko tradition: Giorgos Mitsakis (1921-1993), a renowned bouzouki soloist and prolific songwriter, and Kostis Bezos (1905–1943), an internationally acclaimed performer, journalist, and cartoonist who fused rebetiko with Hawaiian sounds through his group The White Birds.
The festival also honors the historic “Estoudiantines”, small ensembles of mandolin and guitar players and singers, known for their interpretations and lively performances.
Workshops this year will explore the rich traditions of the Piraeus and Asia Minor schools, offering deep dives into their musical influences and styles. A special session will guide participants through the arrangement of a rebetiko song, covering its rhythmic structure, instrumental solos, and vocal components.
Visitors can also enjoy an exhibition of traditional Greek instruments, curated by master luthiers from across the country.
Organized by the Municipality of Syros-Ermoupolis and the Cyclades Chamber, the 9th Rebetiko Festival celebrates both the history and the ongoing evolution of this treasured Greek music genre.
All events are free of charge, but early arrival (at least 15 minutes before start time) is recommended. Concerts begin at 9:00 p.m. Events take place at various points in Ermoupolis including the Vrontados Steps, the Tarsanas (shipyard), Ano Syros, and on Miaouli Square. You can find more details and full program here.
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