- rebetikocarnival@gmail.com
In this seminar we will try to approach a few different elements of the bouzouki itself and as a part of a whole band. We will do an introduction to the basics of the instrument (notes on the fretboard, really basic stuff). We will then spend some time on chord meaning and different ways to present them on the bouzouki (Arpeggio exercises, inversions, picking techniques etc). The introduction to the scales of the Greek urban folk music will follow (practice of motifs along the scales, how scales are connected to each other, practice of scales with or without tempo, dynamics etc). Finally we will attempt to enter the magical world of improvisation (taximi) on and off tempo, using most of the above.
Although the lesson will be taught from the 6-string bouzouki, the theory, scales and taximia are relevant to all instruments. Do feel free to participate even if you do not play the bouzouki.
Fotis Vergopoulos was born in 1988 in Melbourne, Australia, but before he even turned one, his family relocated to his spiritual home in Koroni Messinias, Greece. His first steps in music came at the young age of 6 encouraged by his father Nikos who was an inaugural member of the Melbourne-based Apodimi Kompania in the early 80’s.
Upon completing his schooling, he returned to his birthplace and to undertake a Civil Engineering degree. During this time Fotis really blossomed into his musical journey, and found himself playing live at various venues and quite a few festivals (including Brunswick Music Festival, Port Fairy Folk Festival).
As of late 2012 he has returned to Athens and has taken part in various festivals around Greece and around the world. He has collaborated with artists such as Babis Goles, Agathon Iakovidis, Manolis Pappos, Dimitra Galani, Martha Frintzila and Anatoli Margiola.
Workshop Details
Arrival time: 18:45
Start: 19:00
Finish: 22:00
Learning level: open to all levels
Language: Greek & English
Instruments: open to all, but the lesson will be given from the 6-string bouzouki (trichordo)
Please note, the price at the door is £25. Only card payments are accepted.