A Proud Hellene, Frangoulis looks to Contribute to Organization’s Mission
WASHINGTON – Internationally-acclaimed Sony Recording Artist Mario Frangoulis was invited, and accepted, an invitation to become a “member at large” of the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA), the largest and oldest membership-based Hellenic heritage association, announced AHEPA Supreme President Dr. John Grossomanides.
Frangoulis, born in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), has lived outside of Greece and represented Greece as an international “ambassador” for most of his adult career. His passion for Hellenic ideals and for the promotion and protection of Hellenic heritage is reflected in all of his work, both in Greece and abroad.
“We are thrilled and honored to have as a member of AHEPA Recording Artist Mario Frangoulis,” said Dr. Grossomanides. “He is a world-renown artist who has a deep passion for his Hellenic heritage and has demonstrated a will to give back to the community through philanthropic deeds. We are proud to count him as a member, and we look forward to collaborating together on a community service project in the near future.”
Frangoulis is referred to as one of Greece’s “national treasures,” and is best known for his powerful and charismatic live performances. He is also known for his deep commitment to philanthropic causes and especially as a voice for children in need. According to Dr. Grossomanides, this is why AHEPA has asked him to join the ranks of so many who stand for a unified voice abroad for Hellenes. As a member-at-large of AHEPA, Frangoulis will carry the organization’s message to promote Hellenism, education and philanthropic endeavors.
In addition to two highly acclaimed international releases which were fixtures on the Billboard Classical Crossover Charts, “Sometimes I Dream” and “Follow Your Heart,” Frangoulis has another ten solo albums and is featured on many compilations with world famous artists such as, Lara Fabian, Justin Hayward, Sarah Brightman, Bruce Springsteen, Jon Bon Jovi, Natalie Merchant, Madeleine Peyroux and others. His next international release, “Beautiful Things” will be available in Europe in late 2011, and in the United States in 2012. CNN Music Critic Porter Anderson says of Frangoulis, “his world is distilled to pure sound, all voice.”
