Events

Music and singing were integral parts of life for the inhabitants of the North Aegean islands, permeating both everyday life and special occasions. The TRADITIONS the cycle of life (birth, marriage, death) and the cycle of time (religious holidays, fairs) were always accompanied by song and music. However, music played an equally significant role in mundane activities, such as work, household chores, and of course, festivities and entertainment. From soothing lullabies to spirited work songs, particularly during olive harvesting, and from solitary amanes (oriental improvised songs) to nocturnal serenades and communal singing in homes and cafes, music was ubiquitous in daily life. Every village had one or more music groups, often competing with each other. These musicians were typically members of the same family or the same village. While some musicians, especially in urban centres, had formal musical training, many others were practical instrumentalists who relied on their ability to play "by ear," without sheet music. Compensation for musicians often relied on tips or gratuities (“baksheesh”) making it challenging for them to rely solely on their musical performances for income. Consequently, many pursued additional professions such as farming, barbering, tailoring, blacksmithing, and more.