The world mourns, as Mikis Theodorakis has danced his last. Theodorakis, one of Greece’s best-known musical exports – world famous for his score to the film “Zorba the Greek” (1964) – died this morning at the age of 97.

Theodorakis also composed dozens of concert and dramatic works, even as he continued to attract international attention with his over one thousand songs. All the while, he remained politically active, variously jailed, exiled, and elected to the Greek Parliament.

Never afraid to speak his mind, Theodorakis was a controversial figure. No one can deny that he also brought a lot of beauty into the world.

He certainly did his best to live up to his surname. “Theodorakis” derives from the Ancient Greek “Theódōros,” composed of “theós” (divine, deity, god) and “dôron” (gift). Essentially, “God’s gift.” Unquestionably, he gave generously of himself.

Theodorakis may be gone, but his dance goes on. R.I.P.

Theodorakis’ obituary from the BBC

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-58419832

The music that sealed Theodorakis’ immortality

His Symphony No. 2, with Cyprien Katsaris at the piano.
Theodorakis studied with Olivier Messiaen at the Paris Conservatory.

“Honeymoon” (from the Michael Powell film)

Covered by The Beatles

The theme from “Z”

“Antonis,” on which it was based

As heard in the song cycle, “Mauthausen Trilogy,” on poems by Iakovos Kambanellis, survivor of the Mauthausen-Gusen concentration camp

Zorba flash mob