Honouring Psarantonis | His Musical Family, Friends and Collaborators

The Museum of Greek Folk Musical Instruments “Fivos Anoyanakis” – Centre for Ethnomusicology continues its two-year programme “THE MUSICIANS. Nodes of Cohesion – Links of Continuity” (2026–2027) with a tribute to Antonis Xylouris (Psarantonis), one of the most distinctive and influential figures in Cretan music.

A self-taught lyra player from Anogeia, Crete, Psarantonis has forged an exceptional artistic path, transforming the Cretan musical tradition through a profoundly personal and unmistakable style. His unique lyra playing, powerful voice and instinctive improvisation have shaped a musical language that bridges tradition and contemporary creativity, inspiring generations of musicians both in Greece and internationally.

Rather than offering a conventional biographical portrait, the evening presents a deeply personal tribute by those who have shared his musical journey. Members of his family, close friends and long-time collaborators reflect on their experiences with Psarantonis, revealing the musician, the mentor and the person behind the music.

The tribute will be introduced by Loudovikos ton Anogeion, who will speak about Antonis Xylouris and his enduring artistic legacy.

The concert features:

• Niki Xylouri (Psaroniki)
• Lampis Xylouris (Psarolampis)
• Giorgis Xylouris (Psarogiorgis)
• Andreas Arvanitis

Special guest:
Stelios Petrakis

Artistic direction: Giorgis Xylouris

As part of the event, Psarantonis has been invited to donate one of the musical instruments that accompanied his lifelong artistic journey to the Museum. The instrument will become part of the Museum’s new permanent exhibition section, “The People Behind the Musical Instruments”, dedicated to the musicians whose instruments, personal testimonies and life stories embody Greece’s living musical heritage.

The event is part of the two-year programme “THE MUSICIANS. Nodes of Cohesion – Links of Continuity”, through which the Museum honours outstanding musicians who have served as vital bearers of musical knowledge, creativity and continuity within their communities, highlighting their essential contribution to the preservation and ongoing evolution of Greece’s living musical heritage.

Admission is free. Advance booking is required by calling +30 210 325 4129 (Monday–Friday, 09:00–15:00) or by reserving a free admission voucher through more.com. The event is supported by Bodossaki Lectures on Demand (BLOD), the Bodossaki Foundation’s digital lecture library.