All About the Music and Dances of Andros Island
Music is embedded deep in the Greek culture, it has been since the beginning of history and perhaps even before that. Music is found everywhere, in joyous celebrations, in weddings, religious festivities, in story telling and even war. The style of dancing and singing and even the traditional costumes may value from place to place, embellished with a local flair that makes the differences indicative of each region and all the more unique.
Andros has a rich folkloric heritage, that reflects both to its music and dances. The most popular traditional instruments of Andros are the violin, the tsambouna – a bagpipe made of goat skin, the santouri – a stringed percussive with heavenly sounds, the guitar-like laouto and the toumbi drum. Almost every religious celebration, the so-called panigiria feature traditional bands of such instruments and the are the centre of the festivities with their harmonious, time honored melodies. The songs are interestingly unique as well, telling stories of Andros of old and some are said to be centuries old.
Traditional dances of Andros include syrtos, one of the most popular dances of Greece adapted the unique and elegant style of Andros, mpalos, another joyful dance typical of the Cyclades and the southern islands of the Aegean, and Argitikos, a slower, more complicated sequence.
Due to the European influences Andros was under in its prosperous 18th and 19th century, it was a common occurrence to dance Austrian Waltzes and other European dances, especially at parties of the aristocracy. You can witness and admire traditional music and dancing in numerous occasions throughout the year, from religious panigiria, folklore music festival and weddings or celebrations, almost always accompanied by the traditional costumes of Andros, and even some of the more international dances at certain festivals, an interesting addition that highlights the cosmopolitan allure of Andros Island.
The concierge of the Micra Anglia Boutique Hotel in the Chora of Andros would be more than happy to indoors you of any music festivals or celebrations held around the island during your stay; just ask! For more on the exquisite accommodation of the Micra Anglia Boutique Hotel visit www.micra-anglia.gr
