Episode 6: Ποντιακά (Pontos)

Episode 6: Ποντιακά (Pontos)

Author: Balkan Hotspot February 22, 2021 Duration: 0:21

LISTEN TO THE EPISODE HERE


Αγάπη, Τσίπουρο, Μπουζούκι & Roll is calling all stations to Πόντος, in the coast of the Black Sea. Our local informer is Βασίλης Γιορανίδης, and we will have the chance to have a deeper experience of the traditional music of Pontos, Ποντιακά, through the magnificient voice of Μελήνα Χατζικαμάνου – who presented the first live performance for the Dear Listeners of this show!

[and because the presenter himself is a little bit Pontian – proudly, by the way – he didn’t realise the microphone was disconnected when recording Μελήνα’s presentation, which will be left written:]

Μελήνα Χατζικαμάνου (Melína Jatzikamánu) was born in Thessaloniki and still lives there. Has 32 years old and since really young I remembers herself as part of the tradition. At first, as a traditional dancer, and later, as a musician. Completed her studies at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in the Department of Political Sciences, and at the same time studied Byzantine and Contemporary European music. Obtained a Diploma in Monody and a Degree in Harmony, although had already started to work as a singer. From her point of view, traditional singing is not exactly a profession – but most of all a need for expression, existencial survival and psychotherapy. Feels happy and lucky for having had the opportunity to collaborate with almost all her colleagues within the Pontian music heritage, and with a substantial part of musicians from other musical traditions. Her goal is to be able to be in this musical world with all her vocal and mental strength for as long as possible.


Join hosts Bernardo Guerra Machado and Κατερίνα Σταύρου on a weekly audio expedition into the heart of Greek musical tradition with their podcast, Αγάπη, Τσίπουρο, Μπουζούκι & Roll. Produced by Balkan Hotspot, this series is less a formal lecture and more a spirited conversation among friends, often joined by a knowledgeable guest who acts as a cultural guide. Each episode narrows its focus to a specific region of Greece, unpacking the local sounds, instruments, and stories that define its unique musical fingerprint. You'll hear the raw emotion of live recordings, the intricate melodies of the bouzouki, and discussions that connect the music to the land and people who created it. The podcast naturally explores how these deep-rooted traditions have echoed through time, influencing contemporary artists and scenes. While the core of the show is this geographic deep dive, the hosts also weave in special episodes that look at broader themes or unexpected connections within the Hellenic soundscape. It’s an immersive, ethnographic journey designed for anyone curious about the authentic layers of Greek music, from the most remote village celebrations to its enduring global resonance. Tune in for a rich blend of history, personal anecdote, and, of course, fantastic music that feels like sitting at a lively table where the tsipouro flows and the stories roll out as easily as the tunes.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 8

Αγάπη, Τσίπουρο, Μπουζούκι & Roll
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