Type: Interview (Radio)
Language: Greek
Year of Publication: 1978
Description:
In an interview with Theodore Antoniou, broadcast on the Third Programme of ERT on 22 January 1978, and published in the December 1978 issue of the magazine Rotonda, Yorgos Sicilianos discussed his perspectives on contemporary music and its role in society. Sicilianos, a prominent figure among post-war Greek composers, has engaged with various modern musical trends, including the twelve-tone system, serialism, and electronic music. His musical output is extensive and widely performed, both in Greece and internationally. Aside from his compositional work, Sicilianos has been active in administrative roles, serving twice as the Director of the Music Broadcasts Service of ERT, and has been a founding member and vice president of the Greek section of the International Society for Contemporary Music.
During the interview, Sicilianos elaborated on the challenges faced by contemporary composers. He described the struggle of balancing compositional work with other duties such as teaching and conducting, which often divert attention from their primary passion. Despite these challenges, he emphasised the importance of the composer’s role in reflecting and shaping the cultural landscape. Sicilianos highlighted the social and educational value of music, advocating for more public exposure to contemporary works through radio and live performances. He expressed optimism about the future of music, believing that despite the rapid changes and technological advancements, the intrinsic value and educational potential of music remain crucial for society.
Broadcast on the Third Programme of ERT on January 22, 1978, and published in the December 1978 issue (No. 5) of the magazine Rotonda, pages 24-27.