Maria Farantouri

Reviews

Ever since her first concert appearance in 1963, Maria Farantouri has received dithyrambic reviews for her voice and her interpretations. Whether she does personal recitals or she participates with other performers in concerts she always steals the show. I have been a witness to many appearances of Maria Farantouri in Canada, USA and Greece (from 1971-1997) and the response of the crowd has always been extraordinary. Taking a look at some (of the many hundreds from all over the world) reviews it seems that the critics also agree with the audience. Her imposing contralto voice and wonderful repertory she has chosen to sing have captivated the critics.

So here are just a few excerpts from a real large number of reviews from all over the world.

"..Her bearing on stage is humble, modest, and she is miticulous in her conveyance of mood. After dedicating the Yannis Ritsos/Theodorakis song "On these Very Marbles" to Melina Mercouri, you could feel her trumpeting first lines causing the very foundations of the British Museum to tremble." Peter Aspden, Financial Times, Tuesday, December 17, 1996.

With the title "Maria Farantouri Caused Enthusiasm" the newspaper NZG of 1.12.97 characterizes Maria Farantouri as ideal interpreter of Mikis Theodorakis. "With her full, melodic contralto coice, her dramatic expression and large repertory, Maria Farantouri touched the hearts of the people", wrote the newspaper.

"One of the more memorable moments was initiated by vocalist Maria Farandouri who elevated the worthy lyrics of "Mauthausen" to an even worthier plane with her seemingly infinite range and divine delivery". Howell J. Malham Jr., Chicago Tribune, 22.5.94.