The lyre in Crete, Pontus, Thrace and Macedonia: A two-day seminar on music and dance in Mikrochori Drama
A two-day seminar focusing on traditional music and dance, featuring the lyre from various Greek regions, will be held in Mikrochori, Drama, aiming to celebrate and perpetuate Greek cultural heritage.
The Cultural and Educational Association of Mikrochori Drama 'Panagia Soumela' is organizing a pioneering two-day seminar on traditional music and dance that will take place in May 2026. This event, titled 'The lyre in Crete, Pontus, Thrace, and Macedonia', aims to bring together enthusiasts of Greek tradition from all over the country. It seeks to not only celebrate the rich cultural heritage associated with these instruments and dances but also to establish itself as a significant cultural event in the region.
The seminar will feature lectures and discussions in the multi-purpose hall of Jonnies Beer microbrewery, located just outside Mikrochori Drama. Participants will engage with traditional music styles and learn about the distinctive characteristics of the lyre across several Greek regions, including its role in community and celebration. Additionally, practical workshops on traditional dances will be conducted, allowing attendees to experience firsthand the movements that accompany the music.
Evening festivities will take place in the courtyard of the former primary school of Mikrochori, which serves as the headquarters of the 'Panagia Soumela' Association. These activities aim to foster community engagement and attract visitors and cultural tourism to the area, ultimately enhancing the appreciation for Greek folk traditions and their continuing relevance in modern times.