Festival of Polyphonic Songs. This is Athens-13 May 2024

Discover the Polyphonic Songs

Polyphonic songs, a gem in the crown of Greek musical heritage, are complex vocal compositions where multiple independent melody lines are sung simultaneously, weaving a rich sonic tapestry.

This form of music, deeply rooted in the folk traditions of the Epirus region, is a celebration of communal storytelling, expressing themes of life, nature, love, and loss.

Unlike monophonic music, which revolves around a single melody, polyphony layers multiple melodies, each carrying its own narrative yet harmoniously interlocking with others.

This intricate musical interplay not only showcases the technical skill of the performers but also reflects the intertwined lives and shared destinies within Greek communities. Through the polyphonic tradition, generations have passed down stories and emotions, solidifying a collective identity that pulses vibrantly to this day.

The Origins of Greek Polyphonic Songs

The roots of Greek polyphonic songs stretch deeply into the rugged landscapes of Epirus, a region renowned for its rich historical tapestry and enduring cultural traditions.

Here, amidst the towering mountains and flowing rivers, the essence of polyphony was born out of everyday life, reflecting the community’s intimate connection with nature and each other.

While the exact origins remain shrouded in the mists of time, it is believed that these musical expressions evolved from ancient rituals, where voices in harmony sought to capture the spirits of the earth, the cycles of life, and the poignant tales of human existence.

Over centuries, as these communities grew and interacted with neighboring regions, the polyphonic tradition flourished, absorbing influences and evolving in complexity. Yet, at its core, it remained a heartfelt communal activity.

Singing together, villagers would share their joys, sorrows, and the timeless stories of their land, embedding each note with the wisdom of generations. This bond between the people and their music travelled across Greece and beyond, carried by the winds of change and migration.

Today, while Athens pulsates with the energy of the modern world, the ancient echoes of Epirus’s polyphonic songs resonate through the city’s streets, a reminder of the enduring power of tradition and the unbreakable connections formed through the act of communal singing.

The Festival of Polyphonic Songs in Athens

In the heart of Athens, a cultural spectacle unfolds each spring, breathing life into the urban environment through the enchanting Festival of Polyphonic Songs.

Drawing inspiration from the poignant words of poet Michalis Ganas, the festival captures the essence of polyphonic music as an experience “either heard shuddering or else unbearable,” a testament to its profound emotional impact.

Similarly, Thanasis Papakonstantinou likens the lyrics of these songs to “words traveling like wild horses in the air,” capturing the untameable spirit of this traditional music form.

Over three days, from 19:00 till the sun dips below the horizon, twelve polyphonic groups take to the streets of Athens, transforming it into a vibrant mosaic of sound, where musical roadblocks and crossroads are forged through song.

The festival commences on Sunday, May 12, against the picturesque backdrop of Filopappou Hill’s viewing platform.

This day is dedicated to showcasing the talents of three renowned expatriate groups from Epirus and a female group who performs various Greek and Greek-speaking polyphonies, including “Delviniotika”, “Kossovitsa”, “Chaones” Folklore Association of Northern Epirus, and vocal ensemble “Io” (polyphonies from Volaka, Corfu, Greek-speaking Lower Italy).

Their performances are not merely a presentation of songs but a cultural journey through the rich tapestry of Greek polyphony. The festival continues on Monday, May 13, on the steps of Panagia Chrysospiliotissa on Aiolou Street, where it highlights the diversity of polyphonic singing within urban settings.

Five distinct figures from varying generations come together, including groups like Mourgana, Dibri, and “Polyphone” (KEMFA Laboratory), offering a glimpse into the evolving landscape of polyphonic music.

The grand finale on Tuesday, May 14, in the courtyard of Agios Filippos Vlassaros on Adrianou Street, features three of the most acclaimed and enduring polyphonic groups—Pale Ano Pogoniou, “Lot Kurbeti” (Albanian polyphony), and “Haonia”—each with over twenty-five years of tradition and international recognition.

This immersive celebration not only honors the legacy of Greek polyphonic music but also ensures its vibrant resonance throughout Athens and beyond, bridging the past with the present in melodious harmony.

Thanasis Papakonstantinou: Enigmatic Bard

Thanasis Papakonstantinou, often hailed as an enigmatic bard, has seamlessly woven the rich tapestry of Greek polyphonic traditions with contemporary sounds, crafting music that resonates deeply with both young and old.

His lyrics, profound and poetic, explore the myriad facets of human existence, echoing the communal spirit of traditional polyphony.

Through his innovative approach, Papakonstantinou has not only preserved but also revitalized the essence of Greek folk music, making it accessible to a global audience, all while staying true to its roots.

His contribution to the Festival of Polyphonic Songs in Athens further underscores his commitment to celebrating and perpetuating Greece’s unique musical heritage.

More Information About the Event

Date: 13 May 2024

Time: 19:00

Venue: Holy Church of Chryssospiliotissa

Address: Aiolou 60, Athens

For more information about this captivating celebration of Greek culture, please visit https://cityfestival.thisisathens.org/en/festival-of-polyphonic-songs-2/.