Eros & Psyche
Nikos Xanthoulis complete Studies and Sonata for
solo 7-String ancient greek Lyre
Performed by Giorgos Tabakis
– videos for all 12 Studies & 4-part Sonata are available on ‘Giorgos Tabakis guitar’ YouTube channel
Dedicated to my beloved Dr. Nikos Xanthoulis and the path he created
Coming into contact with the unprecedented in scope and depth work of composer Nikos Xanthoulis on the study and revival of the 7-string ancient greek lyre – the “national instrument” of ancient Greece and symbol of later Western musical thought – I felt my musical horizons broaden in every direction.
I experienced an irresistible connection with the instrument itself, with the composer himself who was also my mentor throughout this process, with the study of the surviving ancient texts and books on ancient Greek musical theory and practice, with the necessity to reintroduce the sound and playing of the lyre into today’s musical experience.
I felt it was my personal duty to capture on CD, in the best possible way technically and aesthetically, the entire original material of the 12 Studies and the 4-part Sonata by the composer Nikos Xanthoulis for solo 7-string ancient Greek lyre, wishing to highlight the beauty, the possibilities, the sound, the solid foundations on which the lyre redefines itself in musical reality.
I believe that this material is useful both for the student of the instrument and the music-loving listener who is attracted by acoustic surprise, as well as for the composer who is looking for new, fresh means of expression.
Special thanks to the manufacturer George Nikas and the “Palmos” Ancient Instrument Manufacturing Laboratory for the creation of such high-level and “athletic” performances, compatible with tradition and historical sources of instruments, which accompanied me in the study and recording of the present result.
Special thanks to my Gaia Duo partner, dear friend and superb soprano Marilena Chrysohoidi whom i accompanied in the study viii.
Special thanks to the sound engineer, collaborator and friend Giotis Paraskevaides for the unique approach to the recording and the such a lively and “embossed” impression of the audience that gives the lyra a dominant position, the position it deserves.
Special thanks to my wife Anna Kypreou for transferring all my efforts of the last few years to the cover of the CD, through the artistic and penetrating “eye” that distinguishes her.
Recordings:
June 21 & 22, 2025
Aux Studio Athens
