In Crete, the mandolin appeared during the Venetian rule. In the early 20th century, it was the dominant accompanying instrument for the lyre along with the bulgari. Over time, however, it acquired a leading role in Cretan musical tradition, and nowadays it holds an important position as a melodic instrument. In this workshop, under the guidance of a distinguished mandolin virtuoso, Kostis Avyssinos, the possibilities of the mandolin will be explored, approaching various melodies and tunes found in traditional Cretan music.
Kostis Avyssinos _ Mandolin: Ornamentation and Improvisation
Workshop Type: Open - Instrument-Focused
Participant Level: Intermediate and Advanced
Sheet Music Reading: Not required
Teaching Hours: 5-6 hours/day
BIOGRAPHY
Kostis Avyssinos was born and raised in Skalani, Heraklion, and took his first musical steps alongside his father, the teacher of Cretan music and violin virtuoso, Georgis Avyssinos, playing the lute, mandolin, bulgari, bouzouki, and singing. They traveled together, both in Greece and abroad, spreading the color of traditional Cretan music around the world.
Later, he followed his own musical path, with his own distinctive style both in playing instruments and singing. He has released two personal albums titled "The Libyan Sea" and "Nostos." In 1997, he collaborated for the first time with "Haïnides," and since then, he has been interpreting songs in each of their albums. He has collaborated with many significant musicians, either interpreting songs on their albums or in joint performances. A significant moment in his career was his collaboration with Nikos Mamagakis.