Athens to Adelaide 1950-2015: the impact of cultural transplantation on bouzouki performance and repertoire: a portfolio of recorded performances and exegesis

Abstract

This project traces the impact of the waves of migration from Greece to Adelaide since 1950 and how performance practices of the bouzouki have been shaped by the instrument’s transplantation from Athens to Adelaide. It pursues four inter-related lines of enquiry that are documented through performance: the extent of the migration of bouzouki players to Adelaide during the 1950s; the shift from acoustic to electric instruments and its impact on ensemble playing styles; the role of traditional bouzouki music as a source of influence and inspiration for Greek musicians in subsequent generations; and the incorporation of bouzouki performance practice into the Adelaide world music scene, with the consequent evolution of the bouzouki repertoire and influence. The submission consists of CD recordings of two 60-minute public recitals and a 7500 word exegesis. The project helps bring insight, awareness and new expression of the significant role that the bouzouki has played in shaping the aesthetic style of Greek music in Adelaide since 1950. It also gives voice to the Greek migrant musicians who first brought the bouzouki to Adelaide, documenting their experiences, memories and history and how these experiences have informed and transformed the style and aesthetic of contemporary performance and composition of bouzouki music.