Concert in Honor of the 100th Anniversary of Mikis Theodorakis 21.01.2025
On Tuesday, January 21, an impressive concert took place on the Grand Stage of the St. Petersburg Philharmonic, dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the great Greek composer Mikis Theodorakis. This event became a true highlight for classical music lovers and admirers of Greek culture.
The star of the evening was the world-renowned Greek saxophonist Theodoros Kerkezos, who performed solo parts throughout the concert program. His virtuoso performance of the suite “Zorba the Greek,” dedicated to the anniversary, captivated everyone in the hall. Kerkezos, a close friend of Theodorakis since 1990, was the first to perform the solo in this famous composition. It is worth noting that “Zorba the Greek” remains one of the composer’s most iconic works, with its syrtaki dance becoming a symbol of Greece on the world stage.
The concert also featured works by other outstanding composers. The virtuoso performance of a concerto by Andrei Eshpai, whose 100th anniversary was also celebrated that evening, brought the audience to a thunderous applause. The evening concluded with a program of legendary tangos by Astor Piazzolla, in which the soloist showcased incredible technical prowess and emotional depth.
This concert became an important cultural event not only for Russia but also for the Greek community. It emphasized the strong cultural ties between the two countries and honored the legacy of Mikis Theodorakis and the exceptional talent of Theodoros Kerkezos, whose artistry continues to amaze audiences worldwide.