Thanassis Skordalos facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Thanassis Skordalos
Θανάσης Σκορδαλός |
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| Background information | |
| Born | 10 December 1920 |
| Origin | Crete, Greece |
| Died | 23 April 1998 (aged 77) |
| Occupation(s) | Composer, singer |
| Instruments | Cretan lyra |
| Years active | 1940s – 1990s |
Thanassis Skordalos (Greek: Θανάσης Σκορδαλός) was a famous musician from Crete, Greece. He was born on December 10, 1920, and passed away on April 23, 1998. He was especially known for playing the lyra. The lyra is a special string instrument played with a bow, much like a small violin. It's a very old instrument, similar to those used in the medieval Byzantine Empire.
Contents
Early Life and Music
Thanassis Skordalos grew up in a village called Spili. This village is located in the Rethymno Prefecture area of Crete.
Learning the Lyra
Thanassis started playing the lyra when he was very young. He was only about 9 years old when he picked up the instrument. By the time he was 12, he was already performing. He played at traditional festivals all around Crete.
First Performances and Recordings
Soon, Thanassis performed for Cretans living in Athens. He played at a famous music hall called "Vizantio" in Omonoia Square. His first music recording was made in 1946. It was a well-known song called "Spiliano Syrto." In this recording, Giannis Markogiannakis played the lute alongside him.
Life Beyond Music
In 1947, when Thanassis was 27 years old, he started working. He joined the Security Services of the National Bank of Greece. He worked there for many years until he retired.
A Global Musician
During his long career, Thanassis Skordalos traveled a lot. He performed in many countries where people from Crete had moved.
Performing Abroad
He played his music in places like the United States, Australia, and Canada. He also visited and performed in several countries in Africa.
Family Life
Thanassis Skordalos married Hrisoula Papadaki. She was from Rethymnon, a city in Crete. Together, they had a family with two sons and two daughters.
Legacy and Influence
Thanassis Skordalos is considered one of the most important lyra players. He, along with Kostas Mountakis, greatly helped Cretan music.
Lasting Impact
Skordalos's musical career lasted for sixty years. His work and performances left a big mark on Cretan culture. He passed away on April 23, 1998, at the age of 77.
See also
- Lyra (Byzantine)
- Lyra (Cretan)
- Music of Crete
