 |
|
 |
||
|
|
|
||
Greece Background Informaiton - Music and Dances of Crete (Greece/Greek/Crete/Creta/Kriti): Music The music of Crete is as distinct as its people, and it permeates society as it is ever present in all social events. Cretan traditional music exhibits a unique sound emanating from a unique instrument, the "lyra". Lyra is held vertically, resting on the thighs of the player, and is played with a bow like a violin. Another instrument which contributes to the unique sound is the "lute" which is played like a guitar and provides the vigorous rhythm of the songs. Mantinades are one category of songs that utilize improvisation and speak of age old concerns of love and death. Where to experience real Cretan music and dancing? From May and way into September many different events and village festivities are arranged. E.g. parties, concerts and competitions in dancing, music or cooking. The parties are primarily for the local population, but guests are more than welcome. At these village festivities people come from near and far, whatever the occasion Cretan music is an important part of the entertainment. Other places to experience Cretan music and dancing are tavernas and bars, particularly in the bigger cities. Several places advertise music and dancing- and any "good" discothèque has Cretan music late at night.
The Cretan dances are bound by traditions; it is no coincidence who is to start and who is to end the chain. At weddings there is a fixed order for who is to dance and when. Very often a whole family or parties will "pay" for a dance, and it is considered impolite to participate unless you are invited, however later at night everybody is normally welcome to take part. Most Cretan dances are performed in chains or circles, holding on to each other's shoulders. The small steps and jumps are more complex than what they seem at first glance. The leader of the dance is the one who can impress with acrobatic jumps and difficult steps. For the young man has an outstanding chance to impress and catch the attention of his loved one and friends alike. There are especially 5 dances, that each have a local character. These are found in most parts of Crete. Pediktos and Siganos originate from the area of Iraklion, Pentozalis and Sousta from Rethimnon and Sitos Haniotiko from Hania. The dances are mostly into 2/4 beat. Pidiktos or Maleveuziotikos is the most common Cretan dance. It is a very fast and difficult dance - the steps are small and quick and typical for Crete; up on your forefoot!! It requires endurance. It is a chain dance and danced by both men and women.Siganos is a wedding dance; originally it was the first dance after the ceremony at the church square. Pentozalis meaning 5 steps, an exiting and varied dance and one of the most popular. It's a very powerful dance, which requires endurance and skill. Especially for the leading man who jumps up high and with his hands, slaps thighs and feet in a fast and furious movement. The dance is also danced by women but in a subtler manner, and naturally without the high jumps. Sousta, which in contrast to the other dances is a dance for pairs, can easily develop into a semi flirtation. Sirtos is also an extremely popular dance, danced to hundreds of different tunes and songs.
Law Offices of Savvas Zannetos Igumenu Gavriil 103-105 74100 Rethimno, Crete Greece Tel: (30) 28310-26-258 Fax: (30) 28310-52-263 Please Contact Us today via- Email: zannetos@creteattorney.com
|
|
|---|
Copyright 2004 SavvasZannetos.com
