Music by Greek Composers (3)
Inspired by the search for national musical identities that took place across Europe towards the end of the 19th century, Greek composers sought to combine elements of Greek folk music and Byzantine music with European art music. In this series of programmes, we explore how various composers approached this fusion.
In this third instalment, we hear music by Spyridon Samaras (1861–1917), Petros Petridis (1892–1977) and Yannis Constantinidis (1903–1984).
Playlist
1. Spyridon Samaras: Epinikeia (Songs of Victory)
a. The Awakening of Glory
b. At Was
c. Sea Cannons
d. The Sanctification of the Flag
e. The Eve of the Battle
f. Ioannina
g. On the Acropolis
Varvara Tsambali (mezzo-soprano) and Pazardzhik Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Byron Fidetzis
2. Petros Petridis: Symphony No. 1 in G minor, “Hellenic”
a. Allegro – Allegro molto tempestoso – Adagio
b. Adagio molto cantabile
c. Allegretto
d. Presto – Meno mosso – Presto – Largo maestoso
Bulgarian National Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Byron Fidetzis
3. Yannis Constantinidis: 10 Airs populaires grecs
a. Moderato poco solenne – Poco più moto – Andantino quasi allegretto
b. Allegretto con umore – L’istesso tempo
c. Andante mesto – Andantino languido – Allegro moderato ma con spirito
d. Allegretto giocoso
Aeolos Woodwind Quintet
