Greek musicians died at 77
Here are 13 famous musicians from Greece died at 77:
Stylianos Kyriakides
Stylianos Kyriakides (January 15, 1910 Paphos-December 1, 1987 Athens) was a Greek athlete. He had three children, , and .
Kyriakides was a long-distance runner and marathoner. He is considered one of the greatest marathon runners in Greece's history, and he won the Boston Marathon in 1946. During World War II, Kyriakides participated in the Greek Resistance against Nazi occupation and is considered a war hero in Greece. After his Boston Marathon victory, he became a symbol of hope and resilience for the people of Greece, who were still recovering from the war. He went on to write several books about his experiences, including his memoir, "The Story of a Greek Champion." Kyriakides also became involved in charity work, founding the Stylianos Kyriakides Foundation, which raises money for charitable causes in Greece. In 1983, he was inducted into the International Marathon Hall of Fame.
Kyriakides was born in Paphos, Cyprus, but later moved to Athens, Greece, with his family. As a young man, he developed an interest in running and joined the Athletic Association of Athens, where he focused on long-distance running. In 1936, he competed in the Berlin Olympics, but did not finish the marathon due to an injury.
During the Nazi occupation of Greece in World War II, Kyriakides joined the Greek Resistance and helped transport weapons and supplies across the mountains. He narrowly escaped capture and torture by the Nazis on several occasions. After the war, Kyriakides was invited to compete in the Boston Marathon in 1946 as a way to raise awareness of the suffering of the Greek people. He won the race, finishing in just over two and a half hours.
Following his victory, Kyriakides became a national hero in Greece and was celebrated as a symbol of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. He continued to compete in marathons around the world, including the 1948 London Olympics, where he finished in fourth place.
In addition to his athletic achievements, Kyriakides was known for his philanthropic work. He founded the Stylianos Kyriakides Foundation, which supports a variety of causes in Greece, including children's health, education, and sports.
Kyriakides passed away in Athens in 1987 at the age of 77. He is remembered as one of Greece's greatest athletes and a symbol of perseverance and courage.
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Georgios Skoutarides
Georgios Skoutarides (April 5, 1885-April 5, 1962) was a Greek personality.
He was an accomplished lawyer and politician who served as the Mayor of Athens from 1934 to 1935. Skoutarides was highly respected for his negotiating and leadership skills during his tenure in office. He was also actively involved in various charitable and cultural institutions, promoting education and the arts. Later in life, Skoutarides became a philanthropist and established several foundations to support various causes, including education, social welfare, and medical research. He passed away on his 77th birthday in 1962, leaving behind a legacy of public service and philanthropy.
Skoutarides was born in the town of Pyrgos in the Elis region of Greece. He studied law at the University of Athens and later pursued a career in politics. In addition to serving as the Mayor of Athens, he also held several other political positions, including Deputy Minister of the Interior and Minister of Justice.
Skoutarides was deeply committed to education and culture. He was one of the founders of the "Lyceum Club of Greek Women," a social and cultural organization that aimed to promote women's rights and cultural activities. He also served as the president of the "Society for the Promotion of Education and Learning," an organization that sought to improve the quality of education in Greece.
In addition to his philanthropic work, Skoutarides was a prolific writer and poet. He published several books on various subjects, including law and politics, and his poetry was widely praised for its lyrical beauty.
Skoutarides was posthumously awarded the Gold Cross of the Order of Beneficence for his contributions to Greek society.
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Nikolaos Georgantas
Nikolaos Georgantas (March 12, 1880 Salamis Island-January 23, 1958) also known as Nicolaos Georgandas was a Greek personality.
He was a notable lawyer, politician, and diplomat, who played a significant role in Greek politics during the early 20th century. Georgantas served as a member of the Greek Parliament, representing his hometown, and later served as a minister of the Greek government. He also worked as an Ambassador in various European countries and played a significant role in strengthening diplomatic ties between Greece and other nations. Georgantas was recognized for his contributions with numerous awards and honors, including the Grand Cross of the Order of George I, and the Grand Cross of the Order of the Phoenix. He is remembered as a respected statesman, who devoted his life to serving the Greek people and promoting Greek interests abroad.
Georgantas graduated from law school at the University of Athens in 1902, and he quickly established himself as a prominent lawyer in Greece. He was an active participant in Greek politics, and he was elected to the Greek Parliament for the first time in 1914. Georgantas joined the People's Party in 1920 and eventually rose to the post of Minister of National Economy in 1928.
Under Georgantas' leadership, the Greek economy experienced unprecedented growth and prosperity. He also played a key role in securing Greece's borders and territorial integrity during a time of great political upheaval in the region. In addition to his political and diplomatic work, Georgantas was also a prolific writer and scholar, and he published numerous articles and essays on law, economics, and politics.
Georgantas' legacy continues to be celebrated by the Greek people, and he is remembered as a tireless advocate for his country and a true statesman. His contributions to Greek politics and diplomacy continue to be studied and analyzed by scholars and historians around the world.
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Jean Xceron
Jean Xceron (April 5, 1890 Greece-April 5, 1967) was a Greek personality.
Jean Xceron, originally known as Ioannis Zacharias, was a Greek-American abstract painter and sculptor. He was born on April 5, 1890, in Greece and later emigrated to the United States. He studied art and architecture at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris and became interested in the non-representational style of painting. Xceron was known for his use of vibrant colors, geometric shapes, and bold lines in his artwork.
In the 1930s, Xceron settled in Los Angeles and became involved with the modern art scene. He taught at the Chouinard Art Institute (now the California Institute of the Arts) and later at the University of Southern California. Xceron's artwork was exhibited in numerous galleries and museums throughout the United States and Europe. He was also a member of the American Abstract Artists.
Xceron was married to artist and sculptor Lorser Feitelson, and the couple was part of an art movement known as "Hard-Edge Painting." Xceron died on April 5, 1967, his 77th birthday, in Los Angeles. His legacy includes his contributions to the development of abstract art in the United States.
Xceron's paintings are characterized by his use of bold, contrasting colors and shapes. He was particularly interested in the interplay of light and color, which is evident in many of his works. In addition to painting, Xceron also experimented with other mediums, such as sculpture and printmaking. He often collaborated with his wife, Lorser Feitelson, on various art projects.
In the 1940s, Xceron and Feitelson founded the Post-Surrealist art movement, which emphasized the use of geometric forms and bright, contrasting colors. The movement was a response to the prevailing abstract expressionist style, which favored more organic shapes and muted colors.
Xceron's influence on the modern art world is still felt today. His work has been featured in numerous exhibitions, and many contemporary artists cite him as a major inspiration. Xceron's commitment to exploring the connection between color and light continues to inspire artists around the world.
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Kostas Paskalis
Kostas Paskalis (September 1, 1929 Livadeia-February 9, 2007 Athens) was a Greek opera singer.
He specialized in the tenor repertoire and performed in numerous theaters and concert halls throughout Greece and abroad. Paskalis first studied law at the University of Athens with the expectation of joining the diplomatic corps before switching to music. He later studied voice in Italy under renowned soprano Carmen Melis. Paskalis made his professional debut in Athens in 1953 and went on to become one of Greece's most prominent and beloved singers, earning the title of "The Prince of Tenors." He performed in a wide range of operas, including works by Verdi, Puccini, and Mozart. Paskalis was also a teacher and helped train a new generation of Greek opera singers.
In addition to his successful career as an opera singer, Kostas Paskalis was also a composer and a musicologist. He published several books on music theory and history, including a study on the works of Giacomo Puccini. Paskalis was known for his passionate performances and powerful voice, which he maintained throughout his career. His contributions to Greek opera and music were recognized in 1996 when he was awarded the Gold Cross of the Order of Honor by the Greek government. Paskalis passed away in February 2007 in Athens at the age of 77, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of Greece's greatest opera singers.
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Alekos Sakellarios
Alekos Sakellarios (November 7, 1913 Athens-August 28, 1991 Athens) was a Greek film director, screenwriter, lyricist, playwright, actor and journalist.
He is considered one of the most important figures in Greek cinema and entertainment industry during the 1950s and 60s. Sakellarios wrote the scripts for more than 100 films and directed over 30, including the classic comedy "Madame X". He was known for his witty and humorous dialogue, and his films often depicted the daily life of ordinary Greeks.
In addition to his work in film, Sakellarios was a prolific songwriter and playwright, penning popular songs and plays that are still performed today. He also acted in several films, and hosted a radio show for many years.
Throughout his career, Sakellarios received numerous awards and honors, including the City of Athens Award for his contributions to Greek culture. His legacy continues to influence Greek cinema and popular culture to this day.
Born into a prominent family in Athens, Alekos Sakellarios was exposed to the arts from a young age. He studied law at Athens University, but his passion for the arts led him to pursue a career in cinema and entertainment. His first screenplay was for the 1944 film "The Captain's Table", and he quickly became a sought-after screenwriter.
Sakellarios' films were popular not only in Greece but also in other countries, particularly in the Middle East. His film "Mr. Jackson Spy", was a huge hit in Egypt and made him a household name there. He also collaborated with famous Greek musicians, such as Manos Hadjidakis and Mikis Theodorakis, to create popular songs for his films.
In addition to his contributions to cinema and music, Sakellarios was a respected journalist and commentator on Greek culture and society. He wrote for several newspapers and magazines and was known for his sharp and witty commentary.
Sakellarios' legacy continues to be celebrated in Greece, where his films are still shown on television and his music continues to be performed. His influence on Greek cinema and entertainment industry was immeasurable, and he is remembered as one of the most important cultural figures of his time.
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Pedro Regas
Pedro Regas (April 18, 1897 Faris-August 10, 1974 Hollywood) also known as Panagiotis Thomas Regaskos or Peter Rigas was a Greek actor.
Pedro Regas was born on the Greek island of Samos, and immigrated to the United States in 1915. He began his acting career in the 1920s and appeared in over 300 films, often playing ethnic or foreign characters. He specialized in playing villains and henchmen in Westerns and action films. Some of his notable films include "The Lady from Shanghai" (1947), "The Black Castle" (1952), and "The Wild One" (1953). In addition to his work in Hollywood, he also acted on Broadway and in television. Despite his prolific career, Regas remained a relatively unknown figure in Hollywood and never achieved leading man status.
Pedro Regas was frequently cast as Native American characters, despite not being of Native American descent. He also worked as a stuntman earlier in his career, which may have contributed to his ability to effectively portray tough-guy roles. Regas was known for his versatility and ability to take on a wide range of roles. He continued to act well into his later years, with his final film role being in "A Man Called Horse" (1970). Outside of his acting career, Regas was also involved in Greek-American organizations and was an advocate for Greek independence. Despite never achieving widespread fame, his contributions to the film industry continue to be appreciated by film historians and fans.
He died caused by myocardial infarction.
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Yvonne Sanson
Yvonne Sanson (January 1, 1926 Thessaloniki-July 23, 2003 Bologna) a.k.a. Ivonne Sanson was a Greek actor. Her child is Gianna Sanson.
Yvonne Sanson began her career as a model in Paris, and later transitioned into acting, making her film debut in the French film "Ladies' Paradise" in 1950. She went on to appear in over 50 films throughout her career, including "Romeo and Juliet" (1954), "Black Orpheus" (1959), and "Barabbas" (1961). Sanson was known for her beauty and poise on screen, and was often cast as a seductive femme fatale. She received critical acclaim for her performances in several Italian films, including "Il Mulino del Po" (1949) and "La Grande Strada Azzurra" (1957). In addition to her film work, Sanson also appeared in a number of stage productions, and worked as a television presenter in Italy. She was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Taormina Film Fest in 2002, just a year before her death.
Yvonne Sanson's acting career spanned over 40 years, during which she worked with some of the most acclaimed directors and actors of her time. She was particularly notable for her work in Italian cinema, where she was often cast in leading roles that showcased her talent for both drama and comedy. In addition to her successful acting career, Sanson was also known for her philanthropic work, and was involved in a number of charities throughout her life. She was married twice, first to the actor Pierre Mondy and later to the Italian businessman Carlo Ponti. Despite her success on the big screen, Sanson was known for her humble and down-to-earth personality, and was beloved by her colleagues and fans alike. Today, she is remembered as one of the most talented and glamorous actors of her generation.
She died as a result of natural causes.
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Nicholas Georgiadis
Nicholas Georgiadis (September 14, 1923 Athens-March 10, 2001 London) a.k.a. Nicholas Georgidis was a Greek costume designer.
He began his career designing costumes for operas and ballets in Greece before moving to the United Kingdom in 1954. In London, he quickly established himself as a leading costume designer, working on numerous productions for the Royal Ballet, including "Romeo and Juliet" and "Giselle". Georgiadis also designed costumes for the English National Opera and the Royal Shakespeare Company.
Georgiadis won three Tony Awards for his costume designs on Broadway productions - "The Most Happy Fella" (1957), "Illya Darling" (1967), and "A Little Night Music" (1973). He also worked on several film productions, including "The Shoes of the Fisherman" (1968) and "Othello" (1995).
In addition to costume design, Georgiadis was also a painter and sculptor. He had several exhibitions of his artwork in both Greece and the United Kingdom. Georgiadis passed away in London in 2001, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most celebrated costume designers of the 20th century.
Georgiadis was known for his elaborate and highly detailed designs, which often included intricate embroidery and beading. He was also known for his ability to tell a story through his costume designs, and his collaborations with directors and choreographers resulted in some of the most visually stunning productions of his time. His work was highly influential, and he inspired generations of costume designers to come.
Georgiadis was honored with numerous awards throughout his career, including the Laurence Olivier Award and the Drama Desk Award. In 1996, he was awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of Bath.
Today, Georgiadis' work can be seen in productions around the world, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of costume designers. His contributions to the world of theater and film have left an indelible mark, and his artistry and creativity will be long remembered.
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Jimmy James
Jimmy James (February 15, 1915 Athens-July 4, 1992) otherwise known as Dimitrios Skafidas was a Greek dancer and teacher.
James grew up in Greece and began his career as a dancer in Athens, performing in various theaters and clubs. In 1938, he moved to New York City to pursue his passion for dance and quickly gained popularity in the nightclub scene. He became known for his unique style and flair, incorporating elements of Greek folk dance into his performances.
In addition to his career as a dancer, James was also a respected teacher, training many aspiring dancers in the art of Greek dance. He opened his own dance school in New York City in the 1950s and later published a book on Greek dance.
James's contributions to the world of dance were recognized with numerous awards, including the prestigious Dance Magazine Award in 1989. He continued to be involved in dance until his death in 1992 at the age of 77. Today, his legacy lives on through the many dancers and students he inspired throughout his career.
James was also a pioneer in bringing Greek dance to mainstream audiences. He collaborated with famous musicians and choreographed dance routines for famous movies and television shows, including "Zorba the Greek" and "The Ed Sullivan Show." James also worked to preserve and promote traditional Greek dance, touring with a Greek dance troupe and performing in festivals and cultural events around the world. His passion for dance and dedication to his craft made him a beloved figure in both the dance and Greek communities.
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Thanassis Skordalos
Thanassis Skordalos (December 10, 1920 Crete-April 23, 1998) was a Greek composer and singer.
He was considered one of the most important representatives of the Cretan music tradition and was known for his unique style of playing the Cretan lyra. Skordalos started playing music at a young age before moving to Athens to study at the Athens Conservatory. Skordalos returned to Crete in the 1940s and continued to develop his style by incorporating local traditional music. Over the years, he performed extensively in Greece and abroad, earning him widespread acclaim for his performances, compositions, and contributions to preserving the traditional Cretan music. Skordalos' legacy continues to influence and inspire future generations of Greek composers and musicians.
Skordalos was born in the village Kasteli in Heraklion, Crete and was raised in a family of musicians. His father and grandfather were both singers and players of the Cretan lyra. He started playing the lyra when he was only six years old and it quickly became his life's passion.
During World War II, Skordalos fought with the Greek army against German occupation. After the war, he moved to Athens to continue his studies and expand his knowledge of music theory. His studies at the Athens Conservatory helped him refine his music and composition skills.
Skordalos developed a personal style that blended traditional Cretan instruments and rhythms with modern harmonies and melodies. He was also known for his powerful voice which he used to sing traditional Cretan songs as well as his own compositions.
In addition to his performances, Skordalos worked to preserve and promote the traditional music of Crete. He recorded many albums that showcased the variety and richness of the Cretan music tradition. He also taught master classes and mentored many young musicians, passing on his knowledge and passion for the music of his homeland.
Skordalos' contribution to Greek music was recognized with many awards and honors. In 1997, he received the prestigious Athens Academy Award for his lifetime achievement and contribution to Greek music. His music continues to be celebrated and revered in Greece and around the world.
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Andreas Papandreou
Andreas Papandreou (February 5, 1919 Chios-June 23, 1996 Ekali) also known as Andreas G. Papandreou was a Greek politician, economist and professor. He had five children, George Papandreou, Andreas Papandreou Jr., Nikos Papandreou, Sofia Papandreou and Emilia Nyblom.
Andreas Papandreou played a pivotal role in the modern political history of Greece, having served as the Prime Minister of Greece for three distinct terms; from 1981 to 1989 and then from 1993 to 1996. Prior to embarking on his political career, he had a successful academic career, having earned his PhD in economics from the University of California Berkeley, and teaching economics at several prestigious institutions of higher learning. He also served as the economic advisor to the governments of several Middle Eastern countries before returning to Greece to pursue his political ambitions. Papandreou is also credited with creating the Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK) which is one of the two most important Greek political parties to this day. During his time in office, Papandreou implemented many significant economic and social reforms, including reducing the retirement age to 60, increasing wages and benefits for workers, and increasing access to healthcare and education. He passed away in 1996 at the age of 77.
In addition to his political and academic career, Andreas Papandreou was also known for his opposition to the military dictatorship that ruled Greece from 1967 to 1974. While living in self-imposed exile during this time, he actively campaigned against the Greek junta and worked to promote democracy in his home country. He also authored several books and articles on economics, politics and social justice throughout his career.
Papandreou's personal life was also steeped in political history. His father, Georgios Papandreou, was also a prominent politician who served as prime minister of Greece several times. His wife, Margaret Chant, was also a political activist who played a significant role in the founding of PASOK. The couple met while studying at the London School of Economics and were married for over 30 years until Margaret's death in 1981.
After his death, Andreas Papandreou was widely mourned as a champion of social justice and democratic values in Greece. He is remembered as a transformative figure in Greek politics who helped shape the country's modern identity.
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Andreas Voutsinas
Andreas Voutsinas (August 22, 1932 Khartoum-June 8, 2010 Athens) also known as Andréas Voutsinas was a Greek actor.
He was best known for his work in the theatre, both in Greece and abroad. Voutsinas studied at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before embarking on a successful acting career. He made his film debut in 1964 in the Greek film "The Red Lanterns" and went on to appear in over 40 films throughout his career. In addition to his acting work, Voutsinas was also a renowned director and acting teacher. He taught master classes at universities and acting schools in both Europe and the United States. In the 1970s, he taught a young Meryl Streep, who credited him with helping her develop her technique. Voutsinas passed away in 2010 at the age of 77.
Voutsinas' acting career was not limited to the stage and screen. He also appeared on television, including notable roles on shows such as "Dr. Kildare" and "The Twilight Zone". He also appeared in several Broadway productions, including "The Zulu and the Zeide" and "The Marriage of Figaro". In addition to his work in the arts, Voutsinas was also involved in politics. He was a member of the Greek parliament from 1981 to 1985, representing the Panhellenic Socialist Movement. Throughout his life, Voutsinas was recognized with several honors for his contributions to the arts, including the Silver Medal of Arts and Letters from the French government in 2000. Today, he is remembered as a talented actor, director, and teacher who made significant contributions to the world of theatre and film.
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