ZAKYNTHIAN NIGHT

In ancient Zakynthos, the well-known Zakynthian musician Pythagoras invented a new kind of harp.

Music in modern Zakynthos had many influences, especially from Italy. We didn’t, however, mimic the style of others completely. The music of Zakynthos had its own unique sound and colour. Zakynthos saw the birth of the four-voice ‘Arekia’, a style of song without musical accompaniment. The ‘Kantada’, songs accompanied by the mandolin and other string instruments.

Marcos Batagias founded the first music school on the island in 1815. A little later the first philharmonic orchestra was formed, together with many choirs. The public festivals were always accompanied by the sound of the drum and ‘aniakara’ a type of flute. At other events you could hear the sound of the violin, the guitar and the accordion.

Among the well-known musicians were, Pavlos Karrer, Francisco Domeneginis and Andonis Kapnisis.

Well-loved dances of the Zakythian people are: Sirtos, a lively joyous dance. Amiri (a girl portrays her unfortunate marriage), Yargytos, which shows the battle between Thesius and the Minotaur, Kinigos ‘the chase’, ‘Stavrotos’ ‘the cross’ and many others such as Nifiatikos ‘the bridal dance’, Rigotos and Panorios.

Programme

• Enjoy Zakynthian cuisine
• Have a good time with Zakynthian songs and music.
• Attend the unique Zakyntian dances.