Memphis Jazz legend and iconic Greek vocalist Charles Lloyd has arrived in Australia, bringing his fantastic Greek Project for a very special performance in Sydney’s City Recital Hall. The performance is an exploration of traditional Greek music and is a collaboration with political activist Maria Farantouri. Ahead of the performance tomorrow (Wednesday June 4), we caught up with Charles to gain a bit more insight into the performance.
Having collaborated on many projects since you met [Maria] what was the impetus for creating “The Greek Project”?
We first met about 12 years ago – over the years when I was in Athens, I would invite Maria to join me during a concert for a song or two. We developed a friendship that has grown into something very deep. When we have time off we visit her for extended periods of time. During these days and weeks together, she sings to me and teaches me ancient Byzantine songs, and I teach her some of my humble offerings. At a certain point, we decided that a full length concert was called for. So when George Loukos invited us to perform together at the Herodion in 2010, this became our opportunity really expand and develop our repertoire.
What would you say is the key to longevity in the music industry (talent, passion, dedication, consistency or a combination)?
This is a pursuit that has no end. The longer you live the more experience of life you have, and I find that I have more to give.
Do you have any goals for this project and the fusion the two styles?
We are constantly thinking about expanding our repertoire. Maria brings me more songs from ancient and modern Greek composers and poets – and I write music with her extraordinary contralto voice in mind.
What kind of experience will the audience have?
I can’t say what the experience of the audience will be – this is a music of freedom and wonder. Music for me has always been about consolation and inspiration. If we can inspire and uplift the spirits of the audience, that will be a beautiful thing.
If you were to tempt a new listener to come what do you think would draw them in?
If you are a true music lover you love a lot of it – this music speaks to the depth of the human soul. There is tremendous variety of rhythms and melodies – ancient Byzantine hymns, songs by Mikis Theodorakis, my own compositions from a jazz tradition and together with Maria and the other musicians we find a common ground of great joy and freedom.
Although the songs are performed in Greek there is a compelling emotional quality that overcomes any language barriers. How did you achieve this?
Music is an art form that can go directly to the heart without needing the explanation of the words being sung. It is a very pure expression.
Are there plans to tour this collaboration in this form anywhere else? What plans do you have for future collaborations?
We have had numerous concerts in the US – last year to celebrate my 75th birthday, I brought Maria to America – we had an incredible concert at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in the Temple of Dendur. The next week we were at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC. We have also performed in major European venues. This project has a life of its own – we are happy to have been invited to Melbourne and Sydney to present it in Australia.
The Greek Project plays at the City Recital Hall, Angel Place on Wednesday June 4. More information and tickets can be found HERE
