MEDIA RELEASE: “In the Beginning…. with Rebetiki”

Melbourne’s Rebetiki are one of Australia’s premier exponents of traditional Greek music. Focusing on the urban blues of the early 19th century the group have performed extensively here and abroad. Following numerous successful performances as part of the Greek festival of Sydney program, Rebetiki will be in Sydney once again for a one-time performance.

Taking place on Sunday 10 April at the Factory Theatre this performance will take us back to the beginning and look at the first recordings by pioneering artists that made this music so iconic. From the birth of rebetika leading to the appearance of the first recorded composers and practitioners with a special emphasis on the ‘father’ of rebetika Markos Vamvakaris, this is an event not to be missed.

“Performances by “Rebetiki” are always a highlight of the Greek Festival program. It is a group unlike any we have in Sydney and we always jump at the opportunity to have them perform” said Nia Karteris, Festival Chair.

Melbourne’s REBETIKI will bring the heart and soul of Greek blues back to life. With a variety of instruments including the traditional six string bouzouki, baglama, oud, lute, guitar and percussion Rebetiki present an acoustic passage through a musical style just as vibrant today as it was during its initial development.

Members of the band include, Argyris Argyropoulos, (Baglama, Oud), Tony Iliou, (Guitar, Lute), and Achilles Yiangoulli (Bouzouki, Toubeleki).

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For full details on upcoming events please visit www.greekfestivalofsydney.com.au.

Festival Chair Nia Karteris is available for interviews. Media contact: Greek Festival of Sydney Director Dimi Lafazanos (02) 9750 0440 or [email protected])