Iris Louka

Iris Louka is a distinguished musician and educator with a rich background in both performance and academic achievements. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, graduating with honors in 2007. Louka furthered her education at the Ionian University, earning a Master’s degree in Music Performance with a specialization in viola in 2014, graduating with distinction. In 2020, she completed her Doctorate at the Ionian University, focusing on the interpretation and performance of J.S. Bach’s works for solo viola, where she graduated with the highest honors.

Her foundational musical education began at the Athens Conservatoire, where she received a diploma in violin under Tatsis Apostolidis in 1995 with unanimous distinction and honors. She also earned a diploma in viola from the same conservatoire in 2001, studying under Ismini Carter, and was awarded the prestigious “Michalis Semsis” prize. Louka continued her studies at the Vienna Conservatory in Herbert Muller’s viola class during 1995-1996.

Louka’s professional experience is extensive and diverse. She has performed with several leading Greek orchestras, including the Athens State Orchestra, ERT Symphony Orchestra, Orchestra of Colours, Camerata – Friends of Music Orchestra, Greek National Opera Orchestra, and the Patras String Orchestra. Since 2008, she has been a permanent member of the Athens State Orchestra. Her teaching experience includes positions at the University of Ioannina and the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, where she has served as a visiting professor.

Her performance career includes numerous solo recitals featuring works by J.S. Bach. Notable performances include the concert series “Bach for Ever” at the Athens Conservatoire, the “Midnight Bach” series at the Anglican Church of St. Paul, and performances at the Acropolis Museum and the Benaki Museum. She has also been an active member of various chamber music ensembles, such as the International Quartet, +Kinisis String Quartet, and Quintarco String Quintet. Louka is a founding member of the distinguished ensemble Athens Classical Players, known for their conductor-less performances.

Louka has been recognized for her contribution to contemporary music, particularly for her interpretations of 20th-century works. She has collaborated with the Ergon Ensemble and participated in the Seminar of Ensemble Modern, performing at prestigious venues like the Paxos Festival and the Athens Concert Hall. Her collaborations with legends like Gunther Schuller and Steve Reich have been particularly noteworthy.

In addition to her performance career, Louka has made significant contributions to music education through her innovative programs for the Athens State Orchestra. She has written, designed, orchestrated, and directed several educational projects aimed at introducing young audiences to classical music. These include “Viola Power,” “The Mozart Code,” and “Say it Presto with Maestro.”

Louka’s artistic journey is characterized by her dedication to advancing the viola’s role in classical music, promoting contemporary Greek compositions, and her commitment to historically informed performances. Her work has received critical acclaim and continues to influence both the performance and academic worlds.

Source: University of Athens