APTERA

Original Compositions for Classical Cretan Lyra, Cello, Voice, and Electronics

In APTERA, Greek cellist, improviser, and composer Yiorgos Kaloudis presents a suite of original compositions, highlighting the expressive possibilities of the Classical Cretan Lyra and the cello.

The lyra transcends its traditional role as a bowed instrument, functioning also as a percussive and tonal medium. Its subtle, whistling timbres and melodic potential create introspective and ethereal sonic landscapes.

Kaloudis combines cello and lyra with live-looping and electronic textures, crafting multi-dimensional soundscapes that merge classical and ambient influences. The performance unfolds as a musical-poetic journey, revealing the depth of both instruments while exploring the creative horizons of the Classical Cretan Lyra—a descendant of the Byzantine lyra of the 9th century and precursor to many European string instruments.

Yiorgos Kaloudis – violoncello, Classical Cretan Lyra, live-looping