Kaisariani monastery, P. Petridis, chorale and variations no.1 on a byzantine hymn

A trip to Athens, Greece would be incomplete without a visit to the Kaisariani monastery (Μονή Καισαριανής) of the 11th century, situated on the nothern slopes of mount Hymettus. The holy monastery, which was built on the ruins of an ancient greek temple dedicated to godess Demetra, was reknowned for the beauty of its architecture and its frescoes. But above all, for the wealth of its library which contained ancient greek scroles as well. From the 16th century and on famous greek scholars taught there. It is claimed that, earlier, Georgios Plithon Gemistos visited the place. This monastery offers a rare sensation. It must be the blend of religion, history and nature which allows the visitors to take a glimpse of what is perennial and substantial. On the 28th of December 2010, I took there my friends Nishan, Jack (hi!) and JL. I also took these fotos that I share with my e-friends. Petros Petridis is a greek composer, diplomat, music critic (Vima, Kathimerini) and university professor (King´s College, Sorbonne). He was born in Nigde-Turkey in 1892 and died in Athens in 1977. He studied music in Istanbul and in Paris (with A. Roussel and A. Wolff). In Paris he read law and political sciences as well. His music (wrongfully ignored) includes some of the finest achievements in the greek scholar music production. It is often inspired from greek folk tunes or byzantine hymns and chant but with a solid construction and counterpoint. Sober melodies adhere to the traditionnal forms ...