Greek Folk Song Suite

Greek folk music is characterised by the sound of the ‘buzuki’ which is often used in combination with the clarinet, the mandolin, the violin and various types of tambourines. In Greek Folk Song Suite, Franco Cesarini has elaborated on three songs belonging to this most ancient tradition. The first, O Haralambis, is in 7/8 time, a characteristic of a popular folk dance called kalamatianos. Originally, the song O Haralambis was sung to ‘tease’ during weddings with the text of the song refering to a young man who refuses to marry. The second movement, Stu Psiloriti, refers to an ancient song from the island of Crete. The third movement of the suite is based on the songVasilikos tha gino and is characterised by the sirtaki, probably the most popular Greek dance outside of Greece. This is Greek passion portrayed by a concert band!