Manolis Kalomiris: Greek Folk Dance (Ballos)

Manolis Kalomiris: Greek Folk Dance (Ballos)
Manolis Kalomiris’s “Ballos” is a significant piece within his suite titled “Three Greek Dances,” composed in 1934. The “Ballos” is characterized as a Moderato dance, which reflects the traditional Greek folk dance style. This particular movement was originally written for piano solo around 1917 before being orchestrated and included in the suite. The orchestration of “Ballos” and its final corrections were completed in Prague in 1934, marking an important development in Kalomiris’s work as he sought to blend classical music with Greek folk elements.

The suite consists of three distinct dances, each representing different aspects of Greek culture and musical tradition:

Ballos: Moderato - This dance serves as the first movement of the suite and embodies a lively yet graceful character typical of Greek folk dances.
Idyllic Dance: Moderato - The second movement, originally part of another work called “Island Pictures,” showcases a more serene and lyrical quality.
Dance from Tsakonia (“Tsakonikos”): Con moto - The final movement draws inspiration from the opera “The Mother’s Ring,” adding a dynamic conclusion to the suite.
Kalomiris’s ability to incorporate traditional themes into orchestral settings has made his works significant in both classical and folk music circles. The performance by the Athens State Orchestra under conductor Byron Fidetzis highlights this blend, bringing forth the vibrant textures and rhythms that characterize Greek folk music.