Music from the Greek Underworld - Open Studio Friday 13th September

Join us at Open Studio for an exploration of Music from the Greek underground of the 1930s and 1940s. Con Kalamaras/Paul Karalis & Alex Petropoulos will take the stage, presenting a repertoire that embodies the essence of the Greek Underground scene.

Rebetika music emerged within the gritty urban landscape of Greece during the early 20th century, serving as a poignant reflection of the trials and tribulations faced by marginalized communities. This musical genre, deeply rooted in the experiences of the urban poor, refugees, and outcasts, encapsulated themes of love, poverty, exile, and the harsh realities of city life.

However, due to its association with the clandestine world of the underground, rebetika was swiftly branded as illicit and subversive by the authorities of its time. Its lyrics often delved into topics and lifestyles considered immoral or disruptive to societal norms. Furthermore, the utilization of instruments like the bouzouki, closely linked with marginalized groups, only heightened its outlaw status.

In the eyes of the authorities, rebetika gatherings were viewed as hotbeds of criminal activity and dissent, prompting crackdowns and censorship measures. Yet, despite these obstacles, rebetika persevered, finding its audience in the shadowy confines of taverns and clandestine clubs where it echoed the voices of its creators.