At the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, Spanoudakis will play with Vasilis Saleas, with whom he last performed together almost 30 years ago. The concert is dedicated to Alexander the Great. Credit: Leporello78 / CC-BY-SA-4.0 / Wikimedia Commons
The Odeon of Herodes Atticus in Athens will host a concert by renowned Greek composer Stamatis Spanoudakis, known for emotionally moving works. The concert “For Alexander” dedicated to Alexander the Great will take place on Wednesday, October 11th.
After nearly three decades, Spanoudakis will be joined on stage by the exceptional Vasilis Saleas, a collaboration eagerly anticipated by fans. Despite their shared musical sensibilities, it has been twenty-eight years since these two maestros last played together.
In anticipation of this special event, Spanoudakis shared his thoughts, explaining the circumstances that led to this concert experience. He noted that he has been contemplating this special event for some time. He expressed his desire to have his new musical project ready for the concert on October 11th, although external factors and time constraints have posed challenges. Finally, Spanoudakis revealed his intention to introduce the audience to some new musical compositions.
Spanoudakis’ longstanding musical companions and choir members, who have followed his artistic journey over the years, will be part of this performance. The composer expressed his excitement to present his extensive body of work dedicated to Alexander the Great. It has been a long-held desire.
The esteemed conductor Dinos Georgountzos will oversee rehearsals and orchestrations, and the ensemble of performers for this concert will include many remarkable musicians playing clarinet, violin, cello, drums, and other instruments.
Supervised by Vasileiadis, the Wind Ensemble will feature trumpet and flugelhorn performances. Giorgos Ziakas will conduct the string orchestra “Tamalo” and the mixed choir “Melodies.”
Music Supporting the Fight Against Cancer
A portion of the proceeds from the concert will support the “Galilea” Model Relief Care Unit. This organization provides comprehensive and free Relief Care services to patients with cancer and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
The organization has been operating since 2010, emphasizing that its mission is not bound by nationality, religious beliefs, or financial status.
Iconic Herod Atticus Odeon
The Odeon of Herodes Atticus, located beneath the slopes of the Acropolis, is a legendary open-air theater. Built between 160 and 174 AD, this Roman-style odeon was famous in its time. Originally built with Roman arches and a three-story stage building, it graced ancient Athens with musical competitions and performances.
Although it was destroyed over time by weathering and invaders, it was restored in the late 19th to early 20th centuries. In 1955, it was completely renovated and became a prominent venue for the Athens-Epidaurus Festival. From classical arias to Greek tragedies, this historic site continues to captivate audiences and remains a treasured cultural gem. Moreover, in 2014 it was voted the second best theater in the world.
