There’s a moment on Great Saturday in Corfu, immediately after the boisterous ‘Botides’ tradition, when emotion transcends exhilaration. It’s the moment music ceases to be mere accompaniment and becomes an act of profound respect and unity.
A Timeless Tradition: The Bands’ Homage
As the three major philharmonic bands of the city return to their headquarters after the First Resurrection, an unwritten customary protocol is meticulously observed. The ‘Capodistrias’ Philharmonic Society and the ‘Mantzaros’ Philharmonic Society pass beneath the offices of the Corfu Philharmonic Society (Old Philharmonic), paying homage to the island’s oldest philharmonic.
‘Do Not Fear, Greeks’: An Anthem of Hope
The march that reverberates through the atmosphere is none other than ‘Graikoi’ (Greeks). This piece holds immense historical significance; its lyrics, ‘Do Not Fear, Greeks,’ once served as a clandestine message of freedom.
First, the ‘Capodistrias’ gives the signal. Then, the ‘Mantzaros’ follows, engaging in a unique musical dialogue. The crescendo arrives when the ‘Old Philharmonic’ responds, playing the march twice, amidst an ovation of applause.
From Mourning to Triumph: The Spirit of Corfiot Easter
This is the moment when the solemnity of the Adagio of Good Friday definitively yields to joyful hope. The sound of brass instruments, the red and blue shakos filling the narrow street of the Philharmonic, and the shiver at the mention of the word ‘Resurrection’ compose the very heart of Corfiot Easter.
Witness the impressive interchange of colors and sounds as our three beloved bands become one voice beneath the historic windows of the Old Philharmonic.
Source: https://enimerosi.com/social/106093/mi-fobaste-graikoi-o-umnos-pou-enonei-tis-filarmonikes-tis-kerkuras
