His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, welcomed with joy and cordiality the Greek musicians from Constantinople, Mr. Niko Papageorgiou and Ms. Asineth Fotini Kokkala, who make up the duo “NikoTeini”, at the headquarters of the Holy Archdiocese, in Sydney. The two artists, masters of the lute (lavta) and the Kanun, were accompanied by Mr. Dimitrios Koubaroulis, founder and artistic director of the “Melisma” ensemble, based in Sydney.
On Sunday, 3 March 2024, The duo “NikoTeini” and the “Melisma” ensemble presented a special concert together, with Greek urban, folk songs and Anatolian melodies.
On the occasion of their presence in Sydney and in light of the continuation of their tour to Canberra, Melbourne and Tasmania, the members of the duo “NikoTeini” visited His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia in order to receive his blessings and wishes.
During their visit to the headquarters of the Holy Archdiocese, they first went and venerated the Cathedral of the Annunciation of Our Lady, and then they were received in the Archbishop’s Office, where they had a constructive discussion with the Archbishop, in a warm and friendly atmosphere.
His Eminence informed the artists about the work carried out by the local Church, about the celebrations for the 100th anniversary of its foundation and the upcoming visit of the Ecumenical Patriarch to Australia, while at the same time he congratulated them for their contribution to the preservation and propagation of the musical tradition.
They also discussed the life of the Greek Community of Australia, as well as the Community in Constantinople, while at the end of the meeting the Archbishop duly wished the members of the “NikoTeini” duet well for the rest of their tour and stay in Australia, as well as for the achievement of all their goals in life and in their artistic careers.
