Peter’s inspiration to create the Sounds of Cyprus ensemble was rooted in a personal journey to reconnect with his heritage. “Sounds of Cyprus was born from a deep passion for our island’s rich musical traditions and the investigation of our roots,” Peter explains. His desire to learn more about his mother’s homeland, Cyprus, sparked the idea for a musical event celebrating Cypriot music, similar to the popular “Greek nights” in New York. What started as a personal exploration quickly transformed into a larger initiative.
Elena, co-founder of the ensemble, shares a similar sentiment. “Our journey began with a simple desire—to create a group that performed exclusively Cypriot songs for the community here in New York,” she says. What started as a way to reconnect with their heritage has grown into a dynamic group dedicated to preserving and celebrating Cypriot music. Their performances, now reaching audiences worldwide, showcase the beauty of Cyprus’s musical legacy.
Unique Elements of Traditional Cypriot Music
One of the main objectives of Sounds of Cyprus is to highlight the unique elements of traditional Cypriot music. Elena points out that the island’s music is “a beautiful blend of influences that have been passed down through generations,” reflecting the diverse peoples who have shaped Cyprus’s history. Their performances focus on capturing the essence of traditional songs and dances that speak of love, community, and everyday life.
Peter elaborates on the distinct qualities of Cypriot music, explaining, “It has a majestic charm, influenced by Greek, Turkish, Venetian, French, and Arabic elements. There’s a medieval and Anatolian charm to it that sets it apart from other Mediterranean music.”
Blending Tradition with Modernity
While rooted in tradition, Sounds of Cyprus doesn’t shy away from incorporating modern interpretations into their performances. Peter explains that while they honor the history of Cypriot music by maintaining traditional melodies, forms, and harmonies, they also introduce new elements such as modern harmonies, rhythms, and improvisation. This blend of past and present allows them to celebrate Cypriot music in a way that resonates with global audiences.
Singing in the Cypriot Dialect
As a vocalist, Elena navigates the linguistic and musical nuances of singing in both the Cypriot dialect of Greek and Turkish. She believes that capturing the essence of the songs in their original form is crucial, regardless of the language. “Both dialects offer their own melodic and rhythmic challenges, but they also enrich the storytelling within the music,” she explains, adding that it’s a privilege to sing in both and explore the vocal traditions they carry.
The Significance of Traditional Instruments
Peter plays the laouto, mandolin, and oud, instruments deeply rooted in Cypriot tradition. “These instruments are national treasures of the island,” he says. The laouto and oud, in particular, have a long history in Cyprus and are essential to maintaining the authenticity of the group’s performances. Even when arranging new versions of traditional songs, they honor the island’s musical heritage by using period instruments.
Preserving Cypriot Cultural Heritage
The ensemble is deeply committed to preserving Cyprus’s cultural heritage through music and dance. Elena notes that they research the historical context of each piece and work closely with experts in Cypriot folklore to ensure authenticity. At the same time, they aim to introduce these traditions to new audiences in creative ways, ensuring that the culture evolves while staying true to its roots.
Peter adds that their work includes extensive research, transcriptions, and collaborations with cultural experts. This includes exploring the endangered dialect of Maronite Cypriot, also known as Cypriot Arabic, which they plan to highlight in their future performances.
Memorable Moments and the Power of Music
For Elena, the most rewarding moments occur when the audience becomes part of the performance. “One particularly special moment was during a concert where the audience, regardless of their background, came together to dance spontaneously,” she recalls. It’s moments like these that remind her of the power of music to create joy and a shared experience.
Sharing the Diversity of Cypriot Traditions
Through their music, Sounds of Cyprus aims to convey the rich and diverse cultural traditions of Cyprus. Elena notes that each song and dance tells a story about life on the island. “Our message is one of celebration—of the unique identity of Cyprus and the enduring power of music to connect people to their heritage.”
As Sounds of Cyprus continues to grow, Peter and Elena remain dedicated to preserving the island’s cultural legacy while sharing its beauty with the world. With each performance, they honor the past while embracing the future, ensuring that Cypriot music remains alive for generations to come.
