Interview in the Magazine Tachydromos (1960)

Description:

In an interview with Tachydromos magazine published on 5 November 1960, composer Yorgos Sicilianos expressed his belief that the Radio Orchestra has the potential to mobilise the musical talents of Greece and showcase the country’s musical output. When asked if the Athenian audience could support two orchestras, Sicilianos affirmed this, pointing out that Athens already supports more than twenty theatres and numerous art exhibition spaces. He emphasised the enthusiasm and appreciation of the Greek audience for beautiful things, which, despite their critical nature, never discourages or disapproves. Sicilianos mentioned the recent concerts of the EIR Symphony Orchestra, which started in early October and would continue biweekly on Sunday mornings at the “Kentriko” theatre, complementing the State Orchestra concerts that had moved to the “Rex” theatre on Monday nights.

Regarding the composition of the EIR Orchestra, Sicilianos noted the challenge of having enough musicians to satisfy the demands of multiple musical organisations in Athens, such as the State Orchestra, the National Opera, and the Radio. He highlighted the necessity for dedicated musicians, suggesting that the profession should no longer be seen as “closed” and resistant to newcomers, as this had previously led to a shortage of skilled musicians. Sicilianos argued that musicians should be adequately compensated to prevent them from overworking in various engagements, ensuring they could focus on their primary roles. He proposed that the EIR should recruit exclusive musicians from within Greece, given the country’s rich artistic potential, and stressed the importance of musicians having both individual and collective training under an experienced conductor. Finally, Sicilianos underscored the need for proper remuneration for musicians, allowing them to live comfortably from their work, and emphasised the importance of the Radio Orchestra having its permanent conductor, who should be dedicated and relatively young, bringing new ideas and enthusiasm to the role.