Type: Paper
Language: Greek
Year of Publication: 1987
Description:
Yorgos Sicilianos, in his paper presented at the National Music Conference in Delphi between 22-25 May 1987, outlines the pressing issues in Greek musical life, emphasizing the need to differentiate between serious (classical) and light music. He notes that misunderstandings about these categories have led to a cultural decline, particularly in music. He stresses that both serious and light music require creativity and talent, but serve different purposes: light music appeals to a broad audience for entertainment, while serious music is more intellectually and aesthetically oriented, often not immediately accessible or commercially profitable.
Sicilianos identifies three main problems: the lack of substantial music education, the commercial interests of record companies shaping public taste, and the media’s inadequate coverage of serious music. He argues for practical measures to support Greek composers, including national composition competitions and commissions for new works by state institutions like the National Opera and state orchestras. He also calls for improved promotion and protection of Greek serious music, suggesting initiatives such as the establishment of a comprehensive archive of Greek composers’ works and increased international collaboration to elevate Greece’s musical heritage on the world stage.
Presented at the National Music Conference in Delphi 22-25 May 1987, organised by the Delphi European Culture Centre.