Places are limited, please book in advance at info@adem.ch
**Discovering the santuri (Middle East). A journey through Mediterranean traditions and Middle Eastern heritage** The "Instrumental Encounters" series is the result of a collaboration between MEG and the Ateliers d'ethnomusicologie (ADEM). During these musical moments, musicians introduce us to their instruments and repertoire. As usual, this encounter will blend musical performance with ethnomusicological perspectives, this time highlighting the santuri. This struck-string instrument belongs to the large family of zithers, closely related to its Mediterranean and Middle Eastern counterparts, such as the Arab-Turkish qanun (kanun), the Balkan cimbalom, and the Persian santur. Ethnomusicologist Estelle Amy de la Bretèque and santuri virtuoso Ourania Lampropoulou will introduce the organological features of the instrument—its trapezoidal soundbox, metallic strings, and the unique playing technique using mallets. Ourania will also share her personal journey, explaining how the santuri led her to explore traditional Greek repertoires. From a sociohistorical perspective, this event will offer a vivid insight into how Greece’s diverse regional music reflects exchanges and influences between Mediterranean and Eastern cultures. A special focus will be given to rebetiko, a genre that blends Anatolian and Western elements with Greek folk traditions. Representing urban popular tradition, rebetiko has, since its emergence in the late 19th century, become a powerful cultural symbol for both mainland Greeks and the diaspora. Despite its widespread popularity today, it is often misunderstood due to its oversimplification into a superficial myth. This encounter will provide an opportunity to uncover its subtleties and secrets. With: 🎵 **Estelle Amy de la Bretèque** – Ethnomusicologist 🎵 **Ourania Lampropoulou** – Musician and Musicologist.