Dialogue with Linos-Alexandre Sicilianos

Abstract or Summary:

Linos-Alexandre Sicilianos, in his interview with Francis Guy, provides an intimate perspective on his father, Yorgos Sicilianos, detailing the balance between his father’s professional dedication and his family life. He describes his father’s ability to completely immerse himself in his work, achieving a state of deep concentration that sometimes bordered on isolation. However, Sicilianos was able to switch off from work and engage fully with his family, maintaining a clear distinction between his professional and personal life. This ability to compartmentalize is highlighted as a key aspect of his father’s character, allowing him to be present and attentive at home despite the demands of his career. Linos-Alexandre Sicilianos further reflects on the philosophy his father held about his compositions: that a piece of music belongs to the composer while it is being created, but once completed, it belongs to the public. This outlook helped Sicilianos maintain a calm and composed demeanour, free from anxiety about the reception of his works. His primary concern was the integrity of the creative process rather than the subsequent performance or public reaction. Linos-Alexandre Sicilianos also touches on his father’s interactions during rehearsals and performances, noting his composed and untroubled nature, even during high-stakes situations such as world premieres. This narrative provides a nuanced understanding of Sicilianos’s approach to his art and his life, underscoring a legacy of thoughtful dedication and balanced living.