KEEPING THE HELLENIC SPIRIT ALIVE

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Eftihia was born in Burundi, Africa, but she was raised in Thessaloniki, Greece. Having lived in Greece for almost her whole childhood and her teenage years, she still maintains a very special connection with her native country.  Eftihia moved to Chicago in 1991, and since then she has been experiencing a prominent feeling of nostalgia for "home",  which has influenced her inspiration and work as a musician.

 

In 2003, Eftihia formed a very special group, the Chicago Hellenic Choir (CHC). The purpose of the group was to serve as an educational and cultural resource for Hellenic (Greek) communities in the Chicago area by preserving, promoting, and celebrating the language, traditions, and religion of Greece through music. The choir includes separate groups  for different ages (junior, youth, and adult groups).  Its members are exposed to and learn about the rich language and culture of Greece through the choir's diverse repertoire, which includes selections by famous Greek composers and poets, lesser known works, and contemporary, traditional, and seasonal compositions.  The choir further fulfills its mission of preserving, promoting, and celebrating Greek culture by performing at numerous venues and events throughout the year.

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Eftihia's desire and efforts to keep the Hellenic spirit alive include other avenues as well:

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• Presentations, concerts, workshops, and lectures related to Greek composers and repertoire.

• Active involvement with various Greek institutions and organizations in the Chicago area.

• Teaching the Greek language for over 20 years.

• Getting her Greek students inspired to learn more about the rich music and culture of their native country.

• Constantly staying updated with new Greek repertoire, poetry, and literature.

• Continuous research and frequent travels to Greece for new insight and inspiration.

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" I cannot forget my roots.  My parents have raised me to be very faithful to and passionate about everything that has enriched my life. Hellas (Greece) is a very rich country when it comes to history, culture, music, and art in general. I grew up surrounded by that richness, I carried it with me over the Atlantic , I treasure it, and it is my passion, my goal, and my obligation to contribute all I can in order to spread it and keep it alive.  I  have been very fortunate throughout the years to have worked with exceptional individuals and organizations in the United States who share the same vision, and I am very thankful to each and every one of them."

~  Eftihia  ~

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• Are you Greek and would like to get involved 

        in Greek cultural activities?  

• Are you a philhellene ("fond of Greeks") and interested 

        in learning more about this beautiful country?  

• Do you enjoy exploring various cultures?  

• Feel free to get in touch with Eftihia!