Artmusic’s Grecian Home

The ArtMusic Coffeehouse in East Stroudsburg, PA presented Pianist and Composer Spiro Cardamis along with Soprano Julie Ziavras on Friday March 2nd. The home provided by Don and Jan Julia Slepian was filled to capacity in anticipation of the musical offerings of the duo. As this was not their first time at The ArtMusic Coffeehouse, there were many who arrived to relive the experiences they had in the past while others heard of the gifts they share with their audience and became eager to partake of them.

These gifts embodied Classical, Greek, and New Age elements as they were combined to create what Mr. Cardamis refers to as “Religious Music of the New Millennium.” In a time when many call for religious freedom in order to enslave others to their precepts and doctrines, it is reassuring to the soul to encounter musical compositions that frees us from all dogma which keep us from expressing a Divine love toward one another. The performance consisted of several songs sung in a foreign tongue, but their transcending life affirming litany reminded our hearts there is something to be experience in life that goes beyond our lives.

As with all concerts at The ArtMusic Coffeehouse, it was begun by the evening’s host, Don Slepian, who touched his keyboards to present a spontaneous melody which served to rid the mind of all thoughts infringing upon the aspects of our better nature. Many of these compositions were created in the moment while others allowed memories of days when more smiles touched our lips to dwell in our consciousness. We yearned to go somewhere over the rainbow in order to wish upon a star.

The atmosphere which Mr. Slepian germinated soon began to blossom as Spiro Cardamis took his place on stage. Sounds deriving from original compositions alongside lovingly arraigned pieces including those created by Greek composer Manos Hadjidakis filled the senses as notes and sound effects brought the full flavor of the Greek Islands to the fore of the imagination. A beauty was felt reminding us of the beauty found whenever we look clearly within ourselves. It is a beauty that can never truly be diminished but can always be enhanced.

The beauty of the music Mr. Cardamis shared was enhanced by the appearance of Julie Ziavras whose vocal blending created a new dimension to the music she accompanied. Poetry was shared as was a new work titled “Farewell.” The remainder of the performance did indeed fare well with those who experienced it not only through their ears but from within their spirits. The conversations engaged in after the concert reflected this and you’ll be able to see more photographs taken throughout the evening in The ArtMusic Coffeehouse 2012 Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150717195285421.457027.636000420&type=1.

According to his website, Spiro Cardamis was born in Athens, Greece to George and Olympia Cardamis. His father was a bandleader who introduced Jazz to the Greek public earning him the reputation of being the Benny Goodman of Greece. Spiro gained a strong sense of pride and inner strength from his mother who encouraged his musical interest through piano lessons. Along with the classical compositions he studied, Spiro was also introduced to the "cool" Jazz of Dave Brubeck and Paul Desmond and came tpo emulate their classic improvisations. His love of music and the opportunity to explore its vast horizons led Spiro to embark upon adventures which can be shared with others. You’ll be able to partake of these adventures while learning more about Spiro Cardamis by exploring his website at www.spirosmusic.com.

#According to her website, Soprano Julie Ziavras is well known for a diversity which is reflected in her varied repertory and styles. Her ability to infuse a classical technique with the popular and folk genre has won critical acclaim for her vocal beauty, musicianship, and dramatic stage presence. Julie  has performed Greek and Classical music in concert, on radio, and TV in the US, Greece, and Serbia which made her the first western artist to perform in that country after the collapse of the Soviet Union. She has appeared in many other countries as well. You’ll be able to learn more about Julie Ziavras by exploring her website at www.julieZiavras.com.

The ArtMusic Coffeehouse is held in the home of Don Slepian and Jan Julia who reside in the borough of East Stroudsburg, PA as part of the Concerts In Your Home Series. A variety of musical forms are presented including folk, jazz, classical, and electronic music. Although the concerts welcomes all who wish to attend, seating is limited as they take place in a private home. The next concerts scheduled to be held at The ArtMusic Coffeehouse will feature Amy Black on Saturday April 21st, The Walking Willows on Saturday May 5th, and Miché Fambro on Friday May 18th. All of the concerts will begin at 8pm. Please Explore The ArtMusic Coffeehouse Website at www.ArtMusicCoffeehouse.com or Call 570-476-6307 for more information and to reserve your seats.