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GREEKS SHINE IN THE SWISS MOUNTAINS Gstaad Music Promenade - 'in homage to Maria Callas' 29, 30 & 31 December 2006 The best of Greek musicianship was on display at the new year in the Swiss mountain resort of Gstaad in honour of the great Greek soprano Maria Callas who died 30 years ago. The event was organized by French pianist and Artistic Director Princesss Caroline Murat coming back to Gstaad after founding the 'Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad' in 2000. "So many people have asked me to come and perform or bring my musician friends back" Caroline Murat explained. "I am so appreciative of the support of the Greek community here in Gstaad. Their Majesties King Constantine II and Queen Anne Marie of Greece are our high patrons together with His Excellency the Director General of the Office of the United Nations in Geneva and Mrs Sergei Ordzhonikidze. Their presence and support has been tremendously important for us to provide a stage for our young musicians" Elena Kelessidi the Greek soprano making such a name for herself at the Royal Opera House in London sang at the opening concert held in the church of Lauenen. John Apeitos, resident conductor of the Athens Radio Symphony Orchestra conducted Camerata Lysy for her. The gala dinner held at the Gstaad Yacht Club was an elegant and relaxed affair for 144 patrons, sponsors, musicians and friends of Princess Caroline Murat. The main sponsors Van Cleef and Arpels celebrated with their guests under the stewardship of their Swiss director Vivien Yakopin. The musical highlight of the weekend was the stunning performance by a young violin talent, also from Greece, fourteen year old Ionian Kadesha. Ionian won this year's special prize at the International Wienawski Violin Competition in Poland. He was accompanied by the event organizer on piano - under her artist's name of Caroline Haffner. The magical mix of young genius and truly great musican as pianist was something no one in the audience will ever forget. Both names to be remembered for ever. Next year's Gstaad Music Promenade, again to be sponsored by Van Cleef, will be held from 29 December 2007 - again with an international orchestra. |