Myth as Inspiration: A Contemporary Perspective

A selection of musical works inspired by Greek Mythology which reflects upon the narrative of Life and Death. Our exploration of these themes begins with Manos Hadjidakis’ lyrically beautiful Song of Eurydice, then turns to two of Iannis Xenakis’ eerie masterpieces, Kottos and Charisma. We close with the première of a new song cycle by Dimitrios Rontsis, based on Homeric Hymns. In between the performances, research scholar at Oriel College Oxford, Tom McConnell, will provide fresh insight into the breadth and depth of this widely-celebrated and inspiring tradition. In addition, there will be the rare opportunity to hear the narration of the Phaistos Disk, based on the recent work of Jon Coleman and Gareth Owens, as well as a performance of the iconic Seikilos Epitaph.

Artists :

Music by Iannis Xenakis, Manos Hadjidakis and Dimitrios Rontsis
Tom McConnell, Texts and Narration
Kyriakos Rontsis, Director, Video preparation and A&V Recording
Dimitrios Rontsis, Director and Event Curator

Performers:

Performers past and present from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama:
Katherine McIndoe, Mimi Doulton, Patricia Auchterlonie, Sopranos
Rees Webster, Oboe, Cor Anglais
Julia Raga Pascual, Rachel Coe, Clarinet
Bianca Watts, Harp
Kathy Chow, Piano
Fabio Fernandes, Matilde Rabaça Moller Freiria, Guitar
Ben Tarlton, Frederick Winterson, Cello
Evangelos Saklaras, Double Bass

This event is curated by Dimitrios Rontsis and directed by Kyriakos and Dimitrios Rontsis.
Organised by the Hellenic Centre