KITHARA - KIΘAPA 

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The word “guitar” comes from the Greek kithara, a type of lyre said to have been crafted by the god Hermes and played by Apollo. Yet, the guitar is not solely an instrument of gods and muses; it is also the instrument of the people—ever-present, a companion of travelers, inseparable from the music and cultures of centuries-old traditions. Kithara is more than just an album; it is a musical journey, a new Odyssey. This project brings together creators from around the world, each inspired by the enduring themes of ancient Greece. Their music intertwines distinct cultural identities with the universal heritage of classical Greece.

At the heart of this journey stands the guitar, a versatile instrument capable of surprising sonorities. It bridges ancient and modern worlds, forging a connection across time and space. The music of Kithara takes on many forms: arrangements of traditional Greek melodies, musical settings of ancient Greek poetry, original compositions, and even reconstructions of ancient Greek soundscapes. This voyage, rich in cultural and stylistic fusion, is punctuated by three ancient chants, placed at the beginning, middle, and end of the recording. Each new piece unveils another perspective, linking contemporary aesthetics with mythology, timeless tales, and literature from the Greek legacy. Here, the guitar plays not only the central role but also acts as a synergistic force, enriched by the invaluable contributions of guest artists Vasiliki Koltouki (recitation and vocals), François Salque (cello), and Julien Beautemps (accordion).

This album is a homage to the eternal spirit of Greece, weaving together antiquity and the present, and reflecting my own heritage. It brings to life the emotions and stories that have shaped me, both as an artist and as a Greek. Through music, it conveys a deep connection to the past while embracing the present—a vibrant and genuine expression for the guitar, the kithara of our era. 

Sotiris Athanasiou