Music
Dimitris Kalantzis 4et – “Grooving High”: Jazz from the ’50s and ’60s at Theatre of the No
Jazz from the ’50s and ’60s, an era defined by freedom, improvisation and iconic melodies, takes center stage in a special live music experience. On Friday, October 2, Dimitris Kalantzis and his quartet take over the stage at Theatre of the No for “Grooving High”, a night dedicated to the timeless sound of classic jazz.
Drawing inspiration from the rich repertoire of the 1950s and 1960s, the quartet goes beyond straightforward interpretations. Instead, familiar compositions become the starting point for improvisation, rhythm and musical interaction, allowing each performance to develop its own character.
At 9:30 PM, “Grooving High” invites audiences into an evening where tradition meets a contemporary perspective, and jazz remains what it has always been: free, spontaneous and alive.
The musicians behind the evening
Joining Dimitris Kalantzis are three musicians from different generations who share a deep passion for jazz. Giorgos Georgiadis on bass, Panagiotis Themas on drums and Stergios Polyzos on saxophone complete the quartet, creating the musical foundation for the evening.
Their different musical backgrounds add a distinctive character to the ensemble. The classic repertoire provides a common starting point, while each composition takes on a new identity through interpretation, improvisation and the spontaneity of a live performance.
Dimitris Kalantzis and his journey through jazz
Dimitris Kalantzis is one of the established figures of the Greek jazz scene, with a long career as a pianist, composer and arranger.
After pursuing important studies in Greece and Hungary, he has collaborated with prominent musicians from both the Greek and international jazz scenes, including Kevin Mahogany, Alex Foster, Abram Wilson, Rex Richardson, Ralph Peterson and Andy Sheppard.
Alongside his performing career, Kalantzis has also played an important role in music education. He taught at the Ionian University from 2004 to 2010 and again from 2013 to the present, while he also founded and directed the Jazz Department of the Athens Conservatoire.
When Greek music meets jazz
A significant part of Kalantzis’ artistic journey has been his exploration of Greek music through the language of jazz.
His discography includes “Mano’s – A Jazz Tribute to Manos Hadjidakis”, which achieved platinum status, as well as “Modes & Moods – Music by Mikis Theodorakis”, “Yesterday Evening – A Jazz Perspective on the Greek Music of the Past” and “Master’s Voice – Vassilis Tsitsanis.”
Through these projects, familiar Greek melodies are given a new dimension, shaped by jazz aesthetics, fresh arrangements and improvisation.
A night for jazz lovers
“Grooving High” is more than a journey back to an important chapter in jazz history. It is an opportunity to experience classic repertoire through the perspective of four musicians who allow the music to unfold freely on stage.
If you love jazz, improvisation and the energy of live musical encounters, the appointment is set for Friday, October 2 at 9:30 PM at Theatre of the No.
