Mandolin Festival

The mandolin has deep roots in the traditional music of the Dodecanese and is a symbol of cultural identity. With its sweet and melodic tone, it accompanies songs of love, exile, and joy at festivals, weddings, and local celebrations. In Chalki, the mandolin holds a special place in the local musical tradition. For the second year in a row, the Municipality of Chalki will honor a musical instrument that once accompanied the island’s celebrations and gatherings. For two days, the mandolin will take center stage at the events, featuring master musicians of the instrument. Even today, the mandolin remains alive, passing down from generation to generation the sound and spirit of an authentic island soul. The first event, on July 21, will take place on the steps of the Church of Saint Nicholas, just as it used to, in the neighborhoods and at the cafes. On the second day (July 22), a musical event will take place at the island’s port.

Michalis Charkiolakis (mandolin) was just 7 years old when he began his musical studies. His father’s encouragement was instrumental in fostering his love for the mandolin.
His musical education began with studies in Cretan and Byzantine music, along with lessons in European music, as well as specialized courses in the musical traditions of Lasithi, exploring other instruments such as the lute, the askomandoura, the flute, and the guitar, and culminated in his degree from the Ierapetra Conservatory. Giorgos Koudoumogiannakis (lyra) studied and graduated from the Athens University of Economics and Business. Music and tradition became his way of life from a very young age, when his father gave him his first lyre. With Vangelis Vardakis as his teacher and later Dimitris Pasparakis, he was introduced to the world of Cretan music as well as the musical traditions of Eastern Crete.

Joining them will be Vangelis Bagourakis (lute – vocals), Manolis Drimis (guitar), and Kostas Pilidis (percussion). Also participating are Binis Zampetoulas (lute) and Michalis Kostakis (lyre).