Barbara's Photoblog
Bouzoukia !
Posted by Barbara (Florida, United States) on 30 June 2008 in People & Portrait.
Bouzouki one of the mainstay instruments of modern Greek music.
This fellow played and sang beautifully in Greek.
@saeed: Even if you have never been fond of the sound you can't help but want to get up and dance. Thank you Saeed.
Lorraine from Gatineau, Canada
Fantastic candid portrait. I love the scene and the guitar's mother of Pearl art is is a beauty. And why is it that men just keep on keeping better looking as they age! What a photo!
30 Jun 2008 9:29am
@Lorraine: You got it, do you think I was really taking a photo of the bouzouki? Ha!
I really think this gentleman's handsome looks along with the sound of his music and singing is what held my interest.
I too felt he had such a charming and romantic style to his features.
His music was softer and more romantic as well, not that strong folk style you often hear with bouzouki.
There were other photos I liked but this one had the most clarity.
Smiling at your comment, thanks Lorraine.
MaryB from Staffordshire, United Kingdom
What a beautifully ornate instrument, (my brother plays the bouzouki :) )
So I can imagine how beautiful it sounded, a great candid shot Barbara.
30 Jun 2008 11:27am
@MaryB: I am pleased you noticed the inlay design. It had the markings of a peacock.
Most likely it would have been possible, if I asked, to photograph the bouzouki up close, but I did not want to interrupt the mood I had from listening.
Thank you for commenting.
Illuci from Hurdegaryp, Netherlands
I know that Greek music is more than only "Zorba the Greek", it's a pity we hear it so few times outside Greece. I'm going to look it up on YouTube.
30 Jun 2008 12:29pm
Illuci from Hurdegaryp, Netherlands
I did so, what a wonderful music but difficult to play I think. I especially enjoyed this one, but I will return and enjoy other artists and styles too!
30 Jun 2008 12:40pm
@Illuci: I was just about to reply to your comment when this additional one arrived. It does seem difficult but as I watched this fellow it seemed the bouzouki made more sound than the movements of his hands, if that makes sense. The sound he created was smoother than the clip.
Your comment was wonderful with the link you supplied. I listened to others as well. Thank very much.
Illuci from Hurdegaryp, Netherlands
Thanks Barbara, I completely melted away in heavenly rythms with Karantinis and Tatasopoulos! Thanks for opening my ears for this!
30 Jun 2008 4:39pm
Judy from Brooksville-Florida,, United States
I see the familiar peacock patterns ...... and while the music of the Bouzoukia is not one connected to my own heritage, it is intriguing. Was this performance at Clearwater Beach, Barb?
I'm sure it warmed your soul just to be there and listen.
1 Jul 2008 1:52am
@Judy: It would have been wonderful to take some macro images of the craftmanship of the bouzouki.
The bouzouki is also used in Irish music.
This was taken in Tarpon Springs.
Sony DSLR-A100
1/60 second
F/8.0
ISO 400
40 mm