Nikos Skalkotas (1904 – 1949)

36 Greek Dances
i. Series 2: XII Peloponnissiakos “The brave Lyngos” 4:30
ii. Series 1: IX Dance of Zalongo 2:20
iii. Series 3: X Arcadikos 4:00
iv. Series 3: XI Messolongitikos 2:00
v. Series 3: XII Mazochtos 2:20

Ludwig van Beethoven (1770 – 1827)

Symphony No 3 in E flat major, op. 55 “Eroica” 50′

“In 1770, two revolutionary figures with heroic and daring personalities were born in two different, but symbolic, parts of Europe; Theodoros Kolokotronis in Ramovouni, Messinia and Ludwig van Beethoven in Bonn, Germany. Both, through their ideas, work and actions, shaped and defined the modern history of their respective countries and beyond. With different means but inspired by the same values and ideas, they aimed at subverting the status quo through societal change and artistic revolutionary creation. Inspired by the ideals of the French Revolution and Napoleon Bonaparte’s leadership, Kolokotronis led the Greek Revolution, noting in his memoirs that “Napoleon and his Revolution opened the eyes of the world.” Beethoven, with his unique artistic creativity, composed his 3rd Symphony inspired by Napoleon, which he later chose to dedicate to “all the Heroes”.

On the occasion of GYSO’s concert at the Konzerthaus Berlin for the Young Euro Classic, our orchestra will be honouring the heroes of the Greek Revolution, linking their fight for liberation to the ideas and the spirit of liberty, equality and fraternity. Beethoven’s ‘Eroica’ Symphony, which paved the way to a new musical era, establishing a bridge between classicism and romanticism, is combined with a selection of Nikos Skalkottas’ Greek Dances, from key cities and regions of the Greek Revolution of 1821. In his ‘Greek Dances’, Skalkotas, who lived and composed in Berlin, transmits part of our traditions and offers a taste of Greece, through his innovative musical perspective.”

Dionysis Grammenos
GYSO’s Founder & Artistic Director