- Two shows are scheduled: August 23 in Heraklion and August 24 in Archanes.
- Performances are free to attend, starting at 9:00 PM.
- Featuring Vasilis Lekkas with Blue 7 ensemble.
The Crete Festival, organized by the Region of Crete, brings exceptional music events to locals and visitors. On August 23, look forward to a unique concert at Heraklion’s Venetian Walls’ “N. Kazantzakis” Garden Theater and August 24 at the Old Municipal School of Archanes. These performances are backed by the Heraklion and Archanes Asterousia municipalities, with free entry.
Vasilis Lekkas: A Greek Musical Icon
- Born on October 13, 1960, in Ano Mitrousi, Serres, Greece
- He started his singing career in Thessaloniki
- Collaborated with prominent Greek composers
- Ambassador for the International Foundation for Greece
Vasilis Lekkas, a celebrated Greek singer, was born in Ano Mitrousi, Serres, on October 13, 1960. He began his musical career at just 14, performing with George Zambetas in Thessaloniki. By 17, he was singing alongside Tzeni Vanou in the same city, and a year later, he made his way to Athens to perform with Yiannis Floriniotis.
His career took a significant turn when Manos Hadjidakis heard him sing in Athens. Impressed by Lekkas’s talent, Hadjidakis offered him a collaboration that included recording albums, concerts, and musical theatre performances.
Collaboration and Influence
On April 2, 1980, Lekkas sang under Hadjidakis’s direction at the Municipal Theater of Piraeus, an event broadcast live on the Hellenic Radio. Through his expressive performances, Lekkas captured the spirit of both Apollo and Dionysus, earning him the nickname “Modern Zorbas” by Mikis Theodorakis. Over the years, Lekkas has recorded with distinguished Greek composers such as Manos Hadjidakis, Mikis Theodorakis, Yiannis Markopoulos, Giannis Spathas, and others. He has also interpreted songs on various collaborative albums and CDs, bringing to life the words of renowned Greek poets and lyricists.
Additionally, Vasilis Lekkas serves as an ambassador for the International Foundation for Greece, emphasizing his role in music and promoting cultural and philanthropic initiatives.
Introducing the Blue 7 Ensemble
Blue 7 Ensemble offers an innovative musical journey with a distinct blend of sounds. Based in Heraklion, this group includes a unique mix of three woodwinds, three brass instruments, and a drum set, crafting a fresh musical perspective. Their repertoire features classics from legends such as Astor Piazzolla, Chick Corea, and George Gershwin. The ensemble’s lineup includes Maria Alexaki on flute, Eva Lasithiotaki on saxophone, Sofia Papoutsaki on clarinet, Kostas Palios on euphonium, Charalambos Palios on tuba, Manolis Sfakianakis on trombone, and Akis Firfiris on drums.
Vocalist Vasilis Lekkas joins, delivering hits from renowned composers like Manos Hatzidakis and Mikis Theodorakis. Renowned pianist Haris Sarris supports, while Spyros Mavropoulos, Charalambos Palios, and Spyros Prosoparis handle orchestrations.