« Modes & Moods »: A jazz version of works by Mikis Theodorakis by Dimitris Kalantzis
On the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the birth of Mikis Theodorakis, a jazz proposal is presented in material of the emblematic Greek composer, by Dimitris Kalantzis with the participation of the Greek jazz scene on April 12, in the Philological Association « Parnassos ».
The repertoire of the show covers a significant period of the synthetic production of Mikis Theodorakis, from « Little Cyclades » to « Axion Esti » and the soundtrack of Kostas Gavras’ film « Z ».
Musical ways, Isocrates, that jazz is described as modal, and of course with similar moods, dominate this musical proposal. The reference to John Coltrane is clear.
Coltrane’s music, tropical, devastating, sub-supply, perhaps religious.
Mikey’s « maternal » musical language, as he says, as well as John Coltrane’s that are in the church.
In the end, no one knows if the prayers of all people find recipient, but it is probably certain that they meet each other.
Dimitris Kalantzis
Mikis Theodorakis note
It was one of the most beautiful and moving moments of my life when I heard the cover of my songs in jazz.
Because from a very young age I was lucky enough to hear every day in the rare (20s) jazz discs of her classical period. A music that marked me and that I would so like to get to know her in depth. But the conditions then (foreign occupation) did not allow me. So jazz has since remained in me like a big repulsive.
That is why I welcome Dimitris Kalantzis’ initiative to dress my songs with the sounds of jazz and in a way of such a high artistic level.
I am glad that I find that there are so much talented musicians in our country, with technical excellence and creative imagination.
After all, this kind of music is extremely demanding, because it is mainly based on improvisation, that is, on a constant alertness of the performer’s spiritual and mental world.
In short, I am very happy for this conjunction of my music with the mythical world of jazz, and so I would like to thank the musicians and above all the inspirational adapter Dimitris Kalantzis, as well as the excellent maestro and friend Milto Logiadis.
Athens, 19.2.2013
Mikis Theodorakis
The musicians play
Dimitris Kalantzis: piano, orchestras
Takis Paterelis: saxophone
Dimitris Papadopoulos: Trumpet
Alexandros-Drakos Kistakis: Drums
George Georgiadis: Bass
Info
Philological Association « Parnassos »
St. Georgiou Karytsi 8, Athens
Information 210 7234567
